In a shocking incident in Mumbai’s Kurla (West) on Tuesday night, the out-of-control electric bus mowed down several vehicles which killed at least six persons and left more than 40 others injured. It happened around 9:45 pm when the Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport (BEST) bus lost control while traveling along Route 332 from Kurla Railway Station to Sakinaka.
An on-video viral footage of the event revealed an accelerating electrical bus brushing past stationary parked automobiles and creating pandemonium at road-side. It deviated from its course and smashed through several auto-rickshaws and motorbikes, as well as a police jeep, on its way. Its path of destruction ended with smashing into the gates of a residential apartment complex.
Casualties and Injuries
The people killed in the accident have been reported to include Kannis Ansari (55), Afreen Shah (19), Anam Shaikh (20), Shivam Kashyap (18), Vijay Gaikwad (70), and Faruq Chaudhari (54). Apart from the six killed, at least 49 people were injured, with four policemen being part of the response team. The injured were taken to Seven Hills Hospital for treatment.
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Driver nabbed and inquiry underway
The bus driver, Sanjay More, has been arrested right after the accident and charged with culpable homicide. Police investigations point to the possibility that More might be responsible for the mishap as he was said to have no experience in driving heavy vehicles. Authorities cannot say if alcohol was a factor yet as they have not yet conducted a blood test on the driver. Additionally, the bus, that had just operated for three months, would be examined for any technical malfunctions.
Eyewitness Accounts of the Crash
Eyewitness accounts described the scene as utterly chaotic as the bus veered out of control for more than 200 meters before crashing into pedestrians and vehicles. Local resident Zaid Ahmed ran to the scene as soon as he heard the loud noise and witnessed the tragedy. “The bus ran over several pedestrians. It is horrible to see,” he said.
Bus’s Background and Operation
The electric bus involved is a part of the BEST fleet, and the Olectra bus is on lease from EVEY Trans. According to reports, this private operator had selected the drivers for these buses. The fatal accident has raised questions about safety measures for the public transport vehicles as well as the competency and experience of the drivers.
Public and Authorities React
This incident has created shock waves in the community, leading to widespread outcry and calls for greater accountability in the public transportation sector. The local authorities promised to investigate the cause of the crash in detail while residents and officials demand more stringent safety measures for vehicles and drivers.
The city is still reeling as the authorities continue their investigation into the deadly crash and its causes.