A horrific accident claimed the lives of at least 20 passengers after a Hyderabad–Bengaluru private bus caught fire near Chinnatekuru village on National Highway 44 in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh, during the early hours of Friday.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
According to initial reports, the Kaveri Travels Volvo bus was en route from Hyderabad to Bengaluru when it collided with a two-wheeler around 3:00 a.m. The motorcycle became trapped beneath the bus, causing sparks that quickly ignited a massive blaze. Within minutes, the flames engulfed the vehicle, leaving passengers trapped inside.
The bus was carrying around 42 people at the time of the accident. Twelve passengers managed to escape by breaking emergency exits and window panes, but many others were unable to get out as the fire spread rapidly through the air-conditioned vehicle.
Survivors’ Accounts and Rescue Operations
One survivor, speaking from Kurnool Government Hospital, said, “I managed to help four others escape, but I couldn’t save my family members.”
Eyewitnesses reported seeing the bus fully ablaze within minutes, making it nearly impossible for most passengers to flee.
Police and fire department teams rushed to the scene immediately. However, heavy rainfall in the region hindered rescue efforts. The injured were transported to Kurnool Government Hospital for treatment. Authorities are still working to identify the victims.
Superintendent of Police Vikrant Patil told reporters, “It appears that the bus hit a two-wheeler, which got stuck underneath. The friction likely caused sparks, leading to the fire. Those who managed to break the glass windows survived.”
Traffic Disruption and Investigation
The accident led to major traffic congestion on the busy Hyderabad–Bengaluru highway, with vehicles stranded for several hours. Police have registered a case and launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire and verify whether safety norms were followed by the travel company.
Leaders Express Condolences
Both Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep grief over the incident.
CM Reddy directed state officials to coordinate with Andhra Pradesh authorities for swift rescue and relief operations. He also ordered the establishment of a helpline for the victims’ families.
CM Naidu called the tragedy “devastating” and assured that the state government will provide full support to those affected.
Also Read: 20 Dead, 16 Injured as Jodhpur-Bound Bus Catches Fire Near Jaisalmer: Short Circuit Suspected
Safety Concerns Under Scrutiny
The incident has once again raised questions about road safety and private bus regulations in India. Experts point out that night-time highway travel often poses higher risks due to poor visibility and fatigue-related accidents.
Authorities are expected to conduct a detailed inquiry to assess whether fire safety measures, such as extinguishers and functional emergency exits, were available on board.
