Chennai, October 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed anguish over the Nilgiris bus accident in Tamil Nadu on September 30 that has left 9 persons dead. The PM also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the kin of the victims.

"Pained by the loss of lives due to a bus accident near Coonoor in Nilgiris district, Tamil Nadu. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I pray that the injured recover soon. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. Those injured would be given Rs 50,000: PM @narendramodi," the PM's official X handle said. On Saturday, a Tenkasi-bound tourist bus fell into a gorge and toppled after the driver lost control of the vehicle, killing 8 people. Tamil Nadu Road Accident: Tourist Bus Falls Into Gorge Near Coonoor, 35 People Injured (Watch Video).

The toll went up to nine with the death of one more woman today. The victims had arrived in the hilly district for a pleasure trip and were returning home when the mishap occurred.