Bus in Andhra fire mishap had Rs 23,000 challans for speeding, danger driving

The Transport Department has clarified that the private bus involved in the Kurnool accident, which resulted in 20 deaths, was registered in Odisha’s Rayagada district and not in Telangana.

Officials said that fitness and permit-related issues for the vehicle fall under Odisha’s jurisdiction. Records also show that the same bus had multiple e-challans in Telangana amounting to around Rs 23,000 for over-speeding, wrong-side driving, dangerous driving.

The deadly accident occurred around 3:30 am on Friday near Chinnatekur in Kurnool district when the luxury bus collided with a two-wheeler and caught fire. Preliminary information indicates there were around 40 passengers on board.

20 people lost their lives, while 18 others survived. Twelve passengers escaped through the emergency exit with minor injuries. They were shifted to Kurnool Government Hospital for treatment.

According to people present at the scene, the fire started in the front portion of the bus and spread rapidly. Several passengers were unable to escape as the flames engulfed the vehicle.

The Telangana Transport Department stated that it will fully cooperate with Andhra Pradesh authorities in the investigation and in providing support to the victims and their families.

Authorities from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha are coordinating to verify the ownership, permit status, and compliance records of the vehicle.

A detailed investigation, including a forensic and mechanical examination, has been ordered to determine the cause of the fire and any possible safety lapses.

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