According to local sources, the bus with around 45 people onboard was travelling along a treacherous mountain highway in Uttarakhand state when it careened over an edge and plunged at least 500 meters.

So far, 21 people have so far been rescued after an overnight operation led by India’s National Disaster Response Force.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that all possible assistance would be provided to the survivors.

“The bus accident in Pauri, Uttarakhand is heart-rending. In this tragic hour my thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope those who have been injured recover at the earliest. Rescue operations are underway. All possible assistance will be provided to those affected,” Modi said in a statement on Twitter. (ILKHA)