Kurla Bus Accident: Driver's Alleged Inadequate Training Under Scrutiny, Police Probe Intensifies

In a startling revelation, Sanjay More, the driver involved in the tragic Kurla bus accident that claimed seven lives and left 49 others injured, has informed police that he received only one day of training. More, during his interrogation, disclosed that the training, which was provided by the contractors, consisted of just two to three rounds within the depot premises and did not include any on-road experience in Mumbai.

This admission has raised serious questions about the training protocols followed by the contractors responsible for hiring drivers under wet-lease agreements. More was assigned to operate a heavy electric bus on Route 332, running from Kurla Station (West) to Agarkar Chowk, Andheri (East), despite alleged insufficient training provided.

Police to Recreate the Crime Scene

As part of the ongoing investigation, police are planning to recreate the crime scene in the next two days, with the involvement of the accused driver, Sanjay More. A senior police officer confirmed the development, stating, "In the next two days, the police will recreate the crime scene along with the accused, More." The reenactment is expected to provide further insights into the events leading to the fatal accident.

Conductor’s Account Highlights Negligence

The bus conductor, who was present during the incident, has provided an account that further emphasizes on the driver's alleged negligence. According to sources, the conductor had rung the bell to signal More to stop the bus after it collided with a car for the first time. However, More reportedly ignored the warning and continued to drive recklessly, hitting multiple vehicles and pedestrians along the way. Passengers on board were said to be terrified after the initial crash, yet the driver did not reduce speed or attempt to stop, ultimately leading to the tragic loss of life.

The investigation revealed that the bus was traveling at speeds of over 60 km/h at the time of the accident. Even after the first collision, More maintained the same speed, which played a significant role in the severity of the incident.

BEST Administration Under Fire

The incident has placed the BEST administration and the contractor under intense scrutiny for their apparent negligence in the hiring and training process. Despite evidence pointing to serious lapses, no action has been taken against the administration or the contractors involved. Police investigations have revealed that an inexperienced driver, with minimal training, was allowed to operate a heavy electric vehicle, putting the safety of passengers at risk.

In addition to the training lapses, authorities are awaiting a report from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) to determine if any mechanical faults contributed to the accident. Once the report is submitted, further action will be taken.

Public Outrage and Calls for Accountability

The incident has sparked widespread public outrage, with many demanding accountability from both the BEST administration and the contractors. The public is questioning the adequacy of the training and safety measures provided to drivers under wet-lease contracts, as well as the overall responsibility of the administration in ensuring passenger safety.​