The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the loss of lives of students in an accident in Beas in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh today (June 9, 2014).

In a message to Smt. Urmila Singh, Governor of Himachal Pradesh, the President has said "I am extremely sad to learn about the accident in which some students from Hyderabad were washed away in the Beas near Thalot in Mandi district. I understand search and rescue operations are currently underway.

I am sure that the State Government is providing all possible assistance to the bereaved families of the students. Kindly ask concerned authorities to make speedy efforts to rescue remaining survivors. Necessary action may please be also taken to investigate the cause of the accident and ensure that such mistakes do not happen in future.

Kindly convey my heartfelt condolences to family members of the deceased students. I pray to the Almighty to give them the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss. I also pray for the peace of the departed souls”.