At Least 17 Feared Dead As Sleeper Bus Catches Fire After Collision In Karnataka's Chitradurga

Karnataka: An accident occurred on National Highway 48 in the Chitradurga district of Karnataka on Thursday morning, which shocked the entire area. A private sleeper coach bus and a truck collided head-on near Goralthu Cross in Hiriyur taluk. The bus caught fire seconds after the collision. Initial estimates are that at least 17 people may have died in this accident. This number is subject to change, as many bodies remain beyond identification and the situation is awaiting complete clarity.

Why did such a horrific collision occur?

According to the police, the truck was going towards Bengaluru from Hiriyur. As he approached a turn, he crossed the divider and came in the other direction. The bus going towards Shivamogga collided directly from the front. Most of the passengers in the bus were on a night journey, and the accident happened suddenly. Many people were sleeping; they did not even get a chance to understand what was happening. Some passengers tried to jump out by breaking the windows, but the flames and smoke worsened the situation.

How many people were injured, and where were they taken?

Among those who somehow managed to get out, many were seriously injured. They have been admitted to a nearby hospital. There was a crowd of relatives outside the hospital, some of whom are still unable to trace their relatives. Police are saying that the official figure will be declared only when the complete records are ready.

Whose negligence is being considered?

At first glance, the truck driver is believed to be at fault. It is believed that he lost control of the vehicle or entered the wrong lane. However, the police have not yet reached any conclusion. The bus is completely burnt, making investigation difficult. The fire brigade took a long time to extinguish the fire, and by the time the bus cooled down, the condition inside had become very bad.

What steps did the administration take on the spot?

Chitradurga SP Ranjith reached the spot and is monitoring the investigation. A case has been registered at the Hiriyur rural police station, and an investigation has been started. There was a jam on the highway for several hours. It took a long time to clear the debris, retrieve bodies, and send the injured to the hospital. Gradually the road was made passable. For the people who witnessed this accident, this scene is going to be remembered for a long time, because the bus engulfed in flames and the screams of the people can distract anyone.