New Delhi: At least 20 people were killed after a Bengaluru-bound private sleeper bus caught fire in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district early Friday. The bus, operated by Kaveri Travels, was travelling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru with around 40 passengers on board when it collided with a two-wheeler near Ulindakonda on the outskirts of Kurnool.
According to initial reports, the two-wheeler got trapped under the bus, and leaking fuel is believed to have sparked the fire. Within moments, the flames engulfed the vehicle, leaving passengers with little time to react. Around 12 people managed to escape by breaking windows, while many others were trapped inside as the main door jammed due to an electrical short circuit.
Eyewitnesses said the blaze spread rapidly, and screams for help could be heard as locals rushed to rescue the injured before firefighters arrived. Nearly 11 people with burns and fractures were admitted to Kurnool District Hospital. Officials said most survivors are between 25 and 35 years of age.
Rescue teams and forensic experts were deployed to the site to identify the victims, many of whom were charred beyond recognition. DNA samples are being collected to help confirm identities. Authorities said the seven-year-old AC sleeper bus had a valid fitness certificate until March 2027, and its documents are being verified as part of the investigation.
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragedy. The Prime Minister announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of those killed and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and directed officials to ensure all possible medical and financial assistance. He also ordered a detailed inquiry and immediate relief for survivors.
The incident comes just days after a similar tragedy in Rajasthan, where 22 passengers died when a Jaisalmer–Jodhpur bus caught fire. The repeated accidents have raised fresh concerns about safety standards in long-distance private bus services.
