A devastating road accident in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district claimed at least 20 lives early Friday morning when a Hyderabad-bound private bus caught fire near Chinnatekur village in Kallur mandal. The incident occurred around 3:30 am on National Highway 44, when the bus, operated by Kaveri Travels, reportedly collided with a motorcycle, triggering a massive explosion.
According to Kurnool District Collector Dr. A. Siri, the bus was carrying 41 passengers, out of which 21 were rescued safely. The remaining passengers were either injured or trapped inside as flames engulfed the vehicle. So far, 11 bodies have been identified, while forensic teams have been deployed to identify the remaining victims.
Police said the two-wheeler got stuck under the bus, rupturing the fuel tank, which caused an immediate explosion. Most passengers were asleep at the time, leaving little chance for escape. Some managed to break windows and jump out, while locals rushed to help before firefighters arrived.
Four fire tenders were deployed to douse the flames, but the bus was completely gutted. The injured have been shifted to Kurnool Government General Hospital, and most of the passengers are believed to be residents of Hyderabad.
In a statement, President Droupadi Murmu expressed her condolences, calling the accident “deeply unfortunate.” Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, currently on an official trip to Dubai, directed officials to provide the best medical care and conduct a thorough investigation.
Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy and former CM Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy also expressed grief, urging the government to extend financial aid and ensure swift relief measures.
Police have registered a case and launched a manhunt for the absconding drivers. Preliminary reports point to negligent driving and possible fuel leakage as the cause of the fire. The tragic incident has left Kurnool and Hyderabad in deep shock, as families await news of their loved ones.
