Kurnool Bus Fire Tragedy: 12 Dead, 9 Missing
A tragic accident unfolded in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, when a bus fire claimed at least 12 lives, with nine others still missing. The incident occurred in the early hours, between 3:00 AM and 3:30 AM, when a Volvo multi-axle sleeper bus collided with a motorcycle. Eyewitnesses reported that the bus caught fire almost immediately after the collision, leading to a rapid engulfing of the vehicle.
At the time of the accident, many passengers were asleep, and the driver initially attempted to extinguish the flames using water bottles, believing it was a minor fire. Unfortunately, the blaze spread quickly, leaving many trapped inside. Some passengers managed to escape with the help of others on the highway, but the situation was dire.
Emergency services were quick to respond, and 19 individuals were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. TDP MP Byreddy Shabari visited the injured and assured them that the best medical care was being provided. The lives lost in this tragic incident include the rider of the motorcycle and several bus passengers.
Authorities have confirmed the recovery of 11 bodies from the wreckage, with the toll likely to rise as search efforts continue. The bus was traveling from Hyderabad to various destinations, and it had picked up passengers from multiple locations before hitting the highway.
Government officials, including Kurnool District Collector A Siri, have stated that an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the fire, which is believed to have started due to a ruptured fuel tank following the collision. The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, currently in Dubai, has instructed local officials to provide all necessary assistance to the victims and their families.
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of lives, extending their condolences to the bereaved families. PM Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. As the community comes together to support the victims, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers on the roads and the importance of safety measures.
