RNE, NETWORK.
At least 20 people were incinerated in a horrific bus accident that occurred in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district early Friday morning around 3:30 AM. According to initial reports, the accident took place when a motorcycle rammed into a private bus operated by Kaveri Travels. The impact caused the motorcyclist to be dragged for some distance, generating sparks that ignited the bus’s fuel tank, engulfing it in flames within seconds. The fire spread rapidly, claiming at least 20 lives.
Kurnool Range DIG Koya Praveen told PTI, “About 19 passengers, two children, and two drivers survived the mishap.” Videos of the tragedy have surfaced on social media, showing locals rushing toward the burning vehicle in desperate attempts to rescue those trapped inside.
Feeling of Déjà Vu
The Kurnool bus accident is reminiscent of the Jaisalmer tragedy that occurred on October 14, 2025, in which 25 people lost their lives, including 20 who were charred on the spot. The accident was so severe that the identification of some victims had to be carried out through DNA analysis.
₹2 Lakh Compensation Announced
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident and announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased. “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 Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “An ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from the PMNRF will be given to the next of kin of each deceased, and ₹50,000 to each of the injured,” the post added.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also expressed shock over the tragedy, writing on X: “I am deeply saddened by the devastating bus fire accident near Chinna Tekur village in Kurnool district. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. Government authorities will extend all possible support to the injured and affected families.”
Burning Questions on Road Safety
Buses remain one of the most common modes of public transport in India, with over 300 million Indians traveling by bus every day. Yet, safety regulations are frequently overlooked, often leading to fatal accidents. Experts point out that overloading, driver fatigue, negligence, and poor road conditions are persistent contributors to such tragedies. The recent back-to-back incidents have reignited public concern over the state of bus safety in India.
