While several passengers managed to escape through the windows, many others were trapped inside as the main door jammed due to a short circuit. (Photo: X/nagachandra)
In a tragic road accident, at least 20 passengers lost their lives when a private bus traveling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru caught fire near Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh early on Friday. The horrific incident occurred around 3:30 AM on National Highway 44, when the bus collided with a motorcycle and burst into flames.
According to police, the bus was carrying 41 people, including two drivers. While several passengers managed to escape through the windows, many others were trapped inside as the main door jammed due to a short circuit.
Authorities have so far recovered 19 bodies from the wreckage. However, due to the severity of the burns, DNA testing is being conducted to identify the victims.
Kurnool District Collector A Siri confirmed that out of the 20 deceased, 11 bodies have been identified so far.
“There were a total of 41 members in the bus, including two drivers. A bike got stuck under the bus. After the accident, petrol leaked from the bike and caught fire. Of the 41 members, we have traced 21 passengers; they are safe. 11 dead bodies have been removed from the bus. 21 members have minor injuries and are undergoing treatment,” she said.
Officials said the bus hit a motorcycle, which was dragged underneath the vehicle. The fuel tank exploded, sparking a massive fire that spread rapidly throughout the bus. Within minutes, the entire vehicle was engulfed in flames.
“The door of the bus got jammed due to a short circuit, and the vehicle was completely gutted within minutes,” said police officials.
Locals rushed to the scene after hearing screams for help. By the time firefighters arrived, the bus was reduced to ashes despite their efforts to douse the flames with four fire engines.
One of the survivors, Jayant Kushwaha, shared his terrifying experience of escaping the burning bus.
“Around 2:30–2:40 AM, the bus stopped, and I woke up and saw that the bus caught fire. I couldn't believe that it was fire. Only two or three people were awake. We yelled fire and woke everybody up. The doors were locked. We couldn't locate the drivers. We broke the emergency window as the main door was locked. We jumped out of the window. Many people jumped out of the bus by breaking the windows,” Jayant told ANI.
His account reveals that passengers saved themselves by breaking the windows, as both drivers reportedly fled the scene after the accident. Police have launched a search to trace them.
The Telangana government has set up a helpline for families of the passengers affected by the tragedy. Officers M. Sriramachandra (M: 9912919545) and E. Chittibabu (M: 9440854433) can be contacted for assistance.
Vice President CP Radhakrishnan expressed condolences over the loss of lives, posting on X:
“Deeply saddened by the tragic bus fire accident in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
Rescue teams have shifted all injured passengers to Kurnool Government General Hospital for treatment. Forensic teams continue to work at the site to identify victims and determine the complete cause of the fire.
Authorities have assured that a detailed investigation will be conducted to prevent such incidents in the future.
ALSO READ: Kurnool Bus Fire: How Did the Hyderabad-Bengaluru Bus Catch Fire So Quickly After Hitting a Bike?
