Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu: Seven persons died and over 50 were injured when a bus went out of control and fell into a valley, a senior police official said.

"Seven persons were declared dead and more than 50 persons, including the driver and conductor, have sustained simple injuries. They are being treated in the government hospital," Dharmapuri Superintendent of Police J Loganathan told PTI over phone.

The government bus was on its way to Hogenakkal from Pennagaram in Dharmapuri district when around 10.30 am, it took a sharp turn near a temple, and fell into the valley some 50 feet below, he said.

Police and rescue personnel rushed to the spot, he said, adding that a case has been registered.

BJP state president Tamilisai Soundararajan expressed grief over the deaths. In a statement, she said, "Tamil Nadu ministers must shift their attention from Srirangam (Assembly constituency where bypoll is scheduled on February 13) and take steps in helping the affected."

PMK founder S Ramadoss also condoled the deaths.