What caused the tragic bus overturning in MP’s Barwani district?
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Synopsis
A tragic bus accident in Barwani district has left one woman dead and dozens injured. Eyewitnesses report brake failure as the cause of the overturning, leading to a swift rescue operation. This incident underscores the dangers of overcrowding and vehicle maintenance issues.
Key Takeaways
- Tragic bus overturning caused by suspected brake failure.
- One fatality reported, with 54 injured, including critical cases.
- Community members played a vital role in the rescue.
- Investigation initiated into bus maintenance and capacity issues.
- Calls for improved road safety regulations.
Barwani, Oct 31 (NationPress) A 63-year-old woman tragically lost her life, and 54 other pilgrims were injured when their overcrowded bus overturned on a hazardous ghat section near Baigaur village in Madhya Pradesh’s Barwani district on Friday.
The victim was identified as Suman Bai from Jamod village, while the others sustained injuries. Among them, two are reported to be in critical condition. The injured have been admitted to Khetia Hospital, District Hospital, and MY Hospital Indore, as confirmed by District Collector Jayati Singh in a post on X.
The bus, transporting devotees from Indore to Prakasha via Omkareshwar for the sacred Narmada Parikrama, lost control shortly after 8 a.m., according to police reports. The vehicle somersaulted down a steep incline on the Khetia-Pati road.
Eyewitnesses have suggested that brake failure was the cause of the accident. “The driver yelled that the brakes had failed,” recounted Dishan, a volunteer preparing meals for the group. “In moments, the bus veered off, flipped, and plunged into the ravine.”
Local residents, alongside officers from Khetia and Pati police stations, quickly initiated a rescue operation, employing JCB excavators and cranes to extract passengers trapped under the debris. Villagers broke windows to assist the injured, many of whom suffered fractures, head injuries, and deep cuts.
District Collector Jayati Singh confirmed that 30 pilgrims received initial treatment at Khetia Community Health Centre. Five individuals with serious injuries were transferred to District Hospital Barwani, while the two critically injured women—both with spinal injuries—were airlifted to MY Hospital, Indore.
Pansemal MLA Shyam Barde arrived at the scene to oversee the operations. “Over 45 devotees were aboard, significantly exceeding safe capacity,” he told reporters. “Without the locals' brave actions, the outcome could have been far worse.”
The ill-fated bus, registered to a private operator, had departed Indore at dawn. Authorities have since impounded the bus and initiated an investigation into its mechanical condition and the issue of overloading.
Initial reports indicate that the 56-seat coach was carrying at least 56 passengers along with their luggage.
Point of View
It is crucial to address the pressing issues of road safety and vehicle maintenance in the wake of this tragedy. This incident reflects systemic problems that need immediate attention. The courage shown by local residents during the rescue operation is commendable, highlighting community spirit in times of crisis. We must advocate for stricter regulations to prevent such occurrences in the future.
NationPress
26/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the bus accident in Barwani?
Eyewitnesses reported that brake failure led to the bus losing control and overturning.
How many people were injured in the incident?
A total of 54 pilgrims were injured, with two in critical condition.
What actions were taken for the injured?
The injured were transported to various hospitals for treatment, including Khetia Hospital and MY Hospital Indore.
What is being done about the bus and the accident?
Authorities have impounded the bus and launched an investigation into its mechanical fitness and overloading.
Who was the deceased in the accident?
The deceased was identified as Suman Bai, a 63-year-old woman from Jamod village.
