New Delhi, Oct 24 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his sorrow over the tragic loss of life in the Andhra Pradesh bus fire incident that resulted in the death of 11 individuals. He announced an ex gratia payment of Rs two lakh for the families of those who perished.

In the early hours of Friday, a Volvo bus caught fire after colliding with a two-wheeler in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, leading to the complete destruction of the vehicle. The bus was en route from Hyderabad to Bengaluru and had approximately 40 passengers onboard. The incident took place near Ullindakonda in the district.

The Prime Minister’s Office shared on X, stating, “I am profoundly saddened by the loss of lives due to the incident in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. My thoughts are with the affected individuals and their families during this challenging period. I am praying for the swift recovery of the injured.”

In addition, the PMO confirmed an ex gratia of Rs two lakh from the PMNRF to the next of kin of each deceased, while those injured would receive Rs 50,000.

Earlier, President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan expressed their condolences over the unfortunate bus incident, describing it as “deeply unfortunate” and extending sympathies to the grieving families.

President Murmu posted on social media platform X, “The loss of lives in the tragic bus fire incident in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, is profoundly unfortunate. I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families and pray for the swift recovery of the injured.”

Vice President Radhakrishnan also shared his condolences on X, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic bus fire incident in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh. My heartfelt sympathies go to the bereaved families, and I pray for the swift recovery of the injured.”

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed his shock at the occurrence, saying, “I am shocked to learn about the devastating bus fire accident near Chinna Tekur village in Kurnool district. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of those who lost loved ones. Government officials will provide all necessary support to the injured and affected families.”

The tragic accident transpired near Chinnatekur in Kallur mandal of Kurnool district when a private Volvo bus caught fire, resulting in tragic loss of life.

The bus was traveling from Bengaluru to Hyderabad when it caught fire following the collision.

Preliminary reports indicate that about 40 passengers were present on the bus at the time of the incident. At least 19 passengers reportedly managed to escape with minor injuries by breaking through the emergency exit, but the bus was entirely consumed by the flames.

Andhra Pradesh State Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy arrived at the site shortly after the news broke. Expressing profound sorrow, he stated, “The loss of so many lives is truly heartbreaking.” He instructed officials to transfer the injured to Kurnool Hospital and ensure they receive the best possible medical attention.