What Happened in Kurnool? Karnataka Team Investigates Bengaluru Passengers in Fatal Bus Accident
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka team dispatched to Kurnool for investigation.
- 11 passengers feared burnt alive in tragic bus accident.
- Transport Minister emphasizes the need for improved bus safety regulations.
- State leaders express condolences and support for victims' families.
- Efforts underway to assist the injured and address their needs.
Bengaluru, Oct 24 (NationPress) A delegation from Karnataka has departed for Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh to collect details regarding passengers from Bengaluru in the wake of a tragic bus accident that left 11 passengers feared burnt alive early Thursday morning, as reported by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy. The bus, registered in Odisha, was en route to Bengaluru from Hyderabad when the incident occurred.
During a press briefing, Minister Reddy stated, “I have coordinated with the officers to gather information about the bus, which operates under an All India permit allowing it to travel anywhere within the country. I have instructed officers from Bagepalli, the nearest town to Kurnool, to promptly go to the scene and gather information about passengers from our state.”
“These buses do not follow a fixed route. The legislation permits such vehicles to operate without paying taxes to any specific state. Previously, buses lacked emergency exits. After a similar unfortunate event, I ensured that double emergency doors were installed in all RTC and private buses—over 50,000 in total,” he added.
“The bus is registered in Odisha, and its fitness certificate was also issued there. Our officers are in the process of collecting additional details,” he continued.
In response to the tragedy, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed, "I am deeply disturbed and saddened by the tragic bus fire accident on the Hyderabad–Bengaluru route near Chinnatekuru village in Kurnool district. Many precious lives were lost, and numerous individuals sustained injuries in this heartbreaking incident.
"My heartfelt condolences go out to the families mourning their loved ones. I wish strength and a speedy recovery for those injured."
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also lamented, "I am profoundly shocked and saddened by the bus fire near Kurnool on the Hyderabad–Bengaluru route. My deepest condolences to the victims' families. We stand with all those affected and pray for the swift recovery of the injured."
Former Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai stated, "The report of the tragic fire accident near Chinnatekur in Kurnool district involving a private bus traveling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru is deeply distressing.
"May the departed souls find peace, and may the injured recover swiftly. I urge the Karnataka government to provide all necessary assistance to the local administration."
Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka commented, "It is shocking to learn that a private bus traveling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru caught fire after colliding with a bike near Kurnool, leading to the deaths of many passengers."
"It’s possible that several passengers were Kannadigas and residents of Bengaluru. I urge the Chief Minister to deploy a special team from the state government to assist local authorities in identifying the deceased and ensuring appropriate medical care for the injured, as well as announcing compensation for the victims’ families," he stated.
BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra remarked, "It is heartbreaking to hear about the tragic fire accident near Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh, where 11 passengers lost their lives after a private bus traveling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru was involved in an accident. I pray for peace for the departed souls and a rapid recovery for the injured.
"Given that some victims may be from Karnataka, I urge the state government to coordinate promptly with local authorities to ensure proper medical treatment for the injured and provide necessary compensation to the families of the deceased."