At least over 40 devotees were feared dead and several others were injured after a state-owned Road Transport Corporation bus fell into a valley in Jagtial district Tuesday, officials said.

The injured have been shifted to government hospital in Jagtial.

Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao expressed shock over the accident. He announced Rs 5 lakh ex-gratia each for the families of the dead.

The bus belonging to the Telangana State Road Transport Corp (TSRTC) fell off Kondagattu Ghat Road while returning from Anjaneya Swamy temple atop Kondagattu Hills, about 190 km from Hyderabad

The bus, carrying more than 60 passengers, met with the accident when the driver reportedly lost control at a speed breaker.

Senior officials rushed to the scene and launched rescue and relief operations.

Kondagattu, known for its Anjaneya Swamy temple, is a popular pilgrim spot.