Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh), Oct 24: In a tragic road accident which took place near Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool on National Highway 44 (NH-44) early this morning, at least 20 were killed and several others sustained injuries after the bus they were travelling in caught fire and was completely engulfed in flames.
As per reports, the bus with around 40 passengers on-board was en-route from Hyderabad to Bengaluru when it hit a two-wheeler on National Highway 44 at around 3:30 a.m. near Chinna Tekur village in Kurnool district.
According to police, the impact caused a two-wheeler to get stuck under the bus that likely triggered a spark leading to the fire. Reports also suggest that the driver fled the scene following the incident.
Several passengers were asleep when the accident occurred and woke up to chaos, struggling to escape the burning bus. Initial reports of the pre-dawn accident indicate that the bus caught fire soon after the collision and was quickly reduced to ashes.
As the fire spread rapidly, 12 passengers managed to escape with minor injuries by breaking open the emergency exit. The injured were taken to Kurnool Government Hospital for treatment. Heavy rainfall was also reported in the area at the time of the incident.
President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the tragic mishap.
"The loss of lives in a tragic bus fire accident in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, is deeply unfortunate. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured," President Murmu posted on X.
PM Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured, while praying for their swift recovery.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) wrote, "Extremely saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured."
"An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi," it added.
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