20 killed as overcrowded minibus falls into gorge in Kashmir

SRINAGAR, India — At least 20 people were killed and 16 others injured on Saturday when an overcrowded minibus fell into a deep gorge along a mountainous road in Indian-controlled Kashmir, police said.

The 22-seat minibus was carrying at least 36 passengers when it plunged off a Himalayan mountain road near southern Ramban town, said police officer Anita Sharma.

The vehicle fell into a deep gorge when the driver apparently lost control due to mechanical failure, Sharma said.

The injured were hospitalized, including 12 in critical condition.