Kottayam: A tourist bus overturned near Cheenkallel, opposite a church on the MC Road, in the early hours of Monday, leaving one person dead and 49 others injured. Among the injured, the condition of 18 people is reported to be critical. The accident occurred at around 2 a.m.

The deceased has been identified as Sandhya (45), a native of Iritty in Kannur district. The bus was returning to Iritty from Thiruvananthapuram when the accident took place. According to initial reports, the vehicle overturned while negotiating a bend in the road.

Those who sustained serious injuries have been admitted to Kottayam Medical College Hospital, while others are being treated at a private hospital in Monippally.

Local residents rushed to the spot upon hearing the crash and were the first to begin rescue operations. Kuravilangada Police later arrived at the scene and have launched an investigation into the incident.