A private Volvo bus traveling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru burst into flames following an alleged collision on National Highway 44 in Kurnool district, resulting in at least 12 confirmed fatalities and leaving several others injured. As rescue operations continue, casualty figure is feared to rise. The mishap occurred around 2:30 a.m. near Chinnatekuru village, where the Kaveri Travels bus, carrying more than 40 passengers, reportedly struck a motorcycle, leading to a fuel tank rupture and an intense blaze that quickly spread throughout the vehicle. Survivors described chaotic scenes of passengers struggling to escape through jammed exits amid thick smoke and roaring flames. One eyewitness recounted hearing desperate cries for help as the fire engulfed the coach, preventing many from fleeing in time. The motorcycle rider was also killed instantly in the crash.
Emergency responders, including local police, fire brigades, and medical teams, arrived promptly but faced challenges in controlling the inferno. So far, 12 bodies have been recovered, with nine individuals still missing, raising concerns that the toll could climb significantly. Over a dozen survivors sustained serious injuries, primarily burns and respiratory issues from smoke inhalation, and were transported to hospitals in Kurnool and surrounding areas for urgent care.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his deep sorrow over the tragedy via social media, stating that the loss of lives was heartbreaking. He sanctioned ex-gratia payments from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund: Rs 2 lakh for each family of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those hurt in the accident. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also mourned the victims, pledging an extra Rs 5 lakh per deceased family from the state government and ensuring all medical expenses for the injured would be covered at no cost.
Investigators are probing the cause, with early indications pointing to possible high speed and the motorcycle's sudden maneuver as contributing factors. Forensic experts are examining the site for evidence, including vehicle data recorders, to determine if driver error, mechanical failure, or road conditions played a role. This stretch of NH44 has a history of deadly accidents, often linked to fatigue among long-distance drivers and inadequate safety protocols.
