What Happened After a Government-Owned Bus Overturned in Kolkata?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Kolkata, Jan 13 (NationPress) More than 10 individuals suffered injuries following the overturning of a government-operated passenger bus that lost control near the Topsia intersection in Kolkata.
As per local accounts and police reports, the bus unexpectedly flipped over while en route from Park Circus to Science City.
Eyewitnesses reported that the bus tilted dramatically before crashing onto the road, causing chaos among the passengers who screamed in fear.
Locals hurried to the scene upon hearing the loud noise. Many passengers found themselves trapped inside the bus, including the conductor.
The rescue efforts were complicated as the bus was overturned in a manner that prevented locals from accessing the passengers through the front door.
Rescuers eventually smashed the rear window of the bus, extracting the passengers one by one.
In total, approximately 16 individuals were injured in this incident, with several sustaining serious injuries.
Upon receiving the distress call, police, fire service, and disaster management teams quickly arrived at the scene.
The injured passengers were transported to the nearby Chittaranjan National Hospital, where they are currently receiving medical care.
This incident resulted in significant traffic congestion at the Topsia intersection and the surrounding areas.
A senior traffic official from the Kolkata Police stated, "CCTV footage from the location has been collected. An investigation into the cause of the accident is underway. A forensic examination of the bus may also be conducted if deemed necessary."
It was reported that the accident was triggered by the bursting of one of the front tires.
Moreover, it has come to light that the bus involved was operating without a valid fitness certificate, raising questions about how it was allowed to serve on a long route like Howrah-Baruipur.
Based on testimonies from passengers and eyewitnesses, the police are set to file a case under applicable legal sections.
Additionally, a separate case is expected to be initiated under road safety regulations for operating the bus with passengers despite lacking a valid fitness certificate, thereby putting lives at risk, according to police sources.