Tragedy in Andhra Pradesh: PM Modi Offers Condolences and Financial Aid Following Bus Fire Incident
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 26 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences for the lives lost in the recent bus accident in Andhra Pradesh. He has also announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakhs for the families affected by this tragedy.
The horrific incident claimed the lives of at least 14 individuals who were burnt alive, while another 15 people sustained injuries when a private bus caught fire after crashing into a tipper truck in the Markapuram district of Andhra Pradesh earlier today.
In a statement posted on X, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) remarked, "The accident in Markapuram is devastating. I extend my deepest condolences to the families mourning their losses. I wish a swift recovery to the injured."
According to the PMO, "An ex-gratia payment of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF will be provided to the next of kin of each deceased. Additionally, Rs. 50,000 will be allocated for the injured victims," the announcement stated.
The tragic event occurred around 6.30 a.m. near Rayavaram, when the bus collided with a tipper truck close to a stone quarry, resulting in both vehicles being engulfed in flames.
At the time of the collision, the bus, belonging to Harikrishna Travels, was carrying 35 passengers. The injured passengers have been transported to the government hospital in Markapuram.
The death toll may rise as some of the injured individuals are reported to be in critical condition.
The victims included both women and children, while ten passengers managed to escape the bus just after the fire ignited.
The bus was en route from Hyderabad to Pamuru in Prakasam district. The passengers were residents of Kanigiri and Pamuru, and the tipper was travelling to Markapuram from Chimakurthy carrying concrete.
Upon receiving the news, police and fire department personnel rushed to the scene and initiated rescue operations, deploying three fire engines to extinguish the flames.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed shock at the tragic accident and contacted officials for more details. He instructed district authorities to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured.
The Chief Minister has also ordered a comprehensive investigation into the accident and requested a detailed report.