Tragic Kurnool Bus Fire Claims 19 Lives: PM Modi and President Murmu Extend Condolences

According to authorities, 15 individuals were rescued and transported to the hospital for medical attention.

New Delhi:

Early Friday morning, at least 19 people lost their lives when a luxury bus caught fire following a collision with a two-wheeler in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool district.

The bus, carrying approximately 40 passengers, was en route from Hyderabad to Bengaluru. Preliminary reports indicate that the vehicle ignited within minutes after striking the two-wheeler.

The bus driver reportedly fled from the scene following the incident.

President, Andhra Chief Minister Express Condolences

Leaders across the political spectrum have expressed their grief over the tragic loss of lives in Friday's bus accident.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office (PMO) stated in a post on X, "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.

The PMO further announced, "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."

President Droupadi Murmu shared her condolences on X, saying, "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."

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu pledged that state government authorities would provide all possible assistance to the injured victims and affected families.

Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh described the news of the bus fire accident near Chinna Tekur village as heartbreaking, extending his deepest sympathies to families who lost loved ones and wishing swift recovery to the injured.

Former state chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy urged the Naidu administration to ensure comprehensive medical support and assistance for those affected by the tragedy.

Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar characterized the accident as heartbreaking, stating, "My prayers are with the victims' families and those battling injuries. No words can ease their pain, but every possible support must reach them without delay."

Rescue Operations and Investigation

Vikrant Patil, Superintendent of Police in Kurnool, informed NDTV that 20 people had been rescued and hospitalized. SP Patil confirmed that the fire was under control.

"At around 3, a bus of Kaveri travels was going from Hyderabad to Bengaluru. It hit a two-wheeler, and it got stuck under the bus. That probably caused a spark and led to fire," Patil explained.

Many passengers were asleep at the time of the accident, potentially hampering their escape from the burning vehicle.

Patil also mentioned that a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team was searching for any passengers who might have been left behind at the accident site.