What Happened When a Passenger Bus Overturned in MP's Shahdol?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Seven passengers injured, one critically.
- Bus overturned near Nipaniya forest post.
- Investigation into road conditions and driver conduct underway.
- Local community played a vital role in rescue operations.
- This incident is part of a concerning pattern of bus accidents in the district.
Shahdol, Aug 3 (NationPress) A passenger bus has flipped over near the Nipaniya forest post in the Papaundh police station area of Madhya Pradesh's Shahdol district, resulting in injuries to seven passengers, with one in a critical condition.
The incident took place around 10:30 p.m. on Saturday when the driver of the private bus reportedly lost control at a sharp turn. The bus was traveling from Byahari to Sarsi.
According to police reports, the front wheel of the bus sank into mud due to recent drizzle, causing the vehicle to overturn along the roadside.
At the time, there were approximately 18 passengers aboard.
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos and panic as the bus toppled over. Local residents quickly notified authorities, and Papaundh Police Station officer Brijendra Mishra and his team arrived promptly on the scene.
In an interview with IANS, Mishra mentioned that three injured individuals approached him directly, while others with less severe injuries were transported to a nearby hospital and may have returned home.
Only one person was admitted to the local community health center, reporting severe chest pain. The officer indicated that this individual might have later moved to the district hospital independently, adding that, fortunately, the accident did not lead to any fatalities or significant injuries.
With the help of local villagers, all passengers were safely rescued from the wreckage.
The police officer confirmed that the rescue effort faced minor delays due to rain, but the community's quick response helped prevent further injuries.
The overturned bus was subsequently removed from the site using an earthmoving machine and safely relocated off the road to restore traffic flow.
Authorities have initiated a formal investigation into the incident, concentrating on road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and driver behavior.
This accident contributes to a disturbing trend of bus accidents in Shahdol district. In May 2023, a bus en route to a political event overturned near Gaghar Naka, resulting in three deaths and over 20 injuries. Another incident in September 2024 injured 15 passengers when a bus traveling to Chhattisgarh lost control and crashed into a power pole near Singhpur.