Aug 22, Kathmandu - Five people have lost their lives and five others are seriously injured after an uncontrolled bus plunged into a crowd in West Champaran district, Bihar.

The accident occurred late Friday night around 11 PM on the Beitia-Lauriya main road (NH-727). The high-speed Shahi bus, traveling from Gorakhpur towards Beitia, lost control and crashed into a crowd gathered near Baswariya and Parautoala during a traditional Chhath festival orchestra performance.

According to local witnesses, a gas cylinder-laden truck was approaching from the opposite direction at the same time. The bus driver reportedly lost control, resulting in the vehicle hitting the roadside crowd and continuing ahead. Two people died instantly at the scene, while three more succumbed to their injuries during treatment.

The deceased have been identified as Sanjay Mahato, Bhola Dubey, Bahadur Mahato, Devendra Dubey, and Changur Ram. The injured are currently receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. Authorities have initiated an investigation, initially attributing the accident to excessive speed.