At least 17 adults and two minors were killed after a Hyderabad-to-Bengaluru passenger bus caught fire in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district early Friday morning.
The incident occurred around 3 a.m. when the bus collided with a motorbike, dragged it for some distance, and burst into flames.
How the accident unfolded
According to Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Anitha, the tragic collision resulted in the immediate loss of 19 lives, including two children.
The bus, which was carrying 39 passengers, was engulfed in flames following the impact. The driver managed to escape and assisted passengers in breaking the windows to flee the burning vehicle.
The motorbike rider, identified as Shiva Kumar, a native of Kurnool, also lost his life in the accident.
Inquiry and government response
Home Minister Anitha described the incident as “unfortunate” and confirmed that a case has been registered, with the bus driver currently in custody.
She said the State police swiftly reached the spot and informed the Chief Minister and local authorities.
Forensic teams have been deployed to aid in identifying the charred remains, as many bodies were severely burnt.
“We have formed special teams to collect DNA samples from deceased families and are investigating the matter further,” the minister added.
