What Caused the Fatal Bus-Truck Collision in Nandyal?
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Nandyal (Andhra Pradesh), Jan 22 (NationPress) A tragic incident unfolded in the early hours of Thursday when a private bus lost control, resulting in a head-on collision with a container truck, which then ignited into flames. The accident, reported to have occurred between 1 and 2 a.m. near Shirivellametta village in Shirivella mandal of Nandyal district, left three individuals dead and numerous others injured, according to police statements.
Officials reported that the drivers of both vehicles along with the cleaner of the container truck were charred beyond recognition.
The private bus, en route from Nellore to Hyderabad with 36 passengers, suffered a tyre blowout, causing the driver to lose control. This led the bus to cross the road divider and crash into an oncoming container truck.
The impact resulted in a massive fire, rapidly engulfing both vehicles. Passengers were thrown into a panic as flames spread inside the bus. Reports indicated that the main door and emergency exit failed to open initially, trapping several passengers inside.
Superintendent of Police Suneel Sheoran stated, "Between 1:00 a.m. and 1:40 a.m., a serious accident occurred involving a private bus traveling from Nellore to Hyderabad. The front right tyre burst, causing the bus to veer onto the opposite side of the road, colliding with a lorry coming from the other direction."
Sheoran confirmed that all passengers except for three were able to escape safely. Local residents and police quickly arrived to assist, breaking open doors and windows to help those trapped.
While 36 passengers were on board, four sustained minor injuries and were transferred to the Government General Hospital in Nandyal for treatment.
"It is unfortunate that three lives were lost in this tragic event. The deceased include the bus driver, the lorry driver, and the lorry cleaner. Their remains are being transported to the hospital," stated SP Sheoran.
Authorities later cleared the accident site to restore traffic flow, leaving the damaged bus and container lorry for further investigation. RFSL and FSL teams from Kurnool were dispatched to determine whether the fire was a direct result of the collision or related to battery issues.
Currently, an investigation is in progress, and further information is awaited.