Sullia: The body of KSRTC bus conductor Devdas’ (47) who jumped into the Kumaradhara River on Sunday after a quarrel with a lady with regard to change was traced at Kukke Subrahmanya on Tuesday.

About 15 swimming experts along with fire personnel launched a search operation on Monday, but were unable to trace the body even late in the evening. It is said that heavy rains and the increased inflow of water caused hindrance to the search operations.

On Sunday, a woman passenger quarreled with Devdas regarding change. She alleged that she had given the conductor Rs 500 but he returned only Rs 100. On the way they stopped at Kadaba police station and it is said that the matter was resolved.

However, soon after the journey resumed, the lady yet again began quarrelling. Upset at the turn of events, the conductor jumped off a bridge into the river.

Devdas’ bag, purse and a log sheet were found in the bus. Sources say that he had written a death note in the log sheet, stating that it was better to die rather than live without respect. It is also said that though the amount to be repaid was written on the ticket, the woman argued.

It is said that as the bus approached the bridge, Devdas blew the whistle and as soon as the driver stopped the bus, he jumped into the river.