Hyderabad: A private travel bus caught fire near Chinnatekur on the outskirts of Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh, killing around 20 passengers. The bus, operated by a Hyderabad-based travel company, was on its way to Bengaluru when a motorcycle crashed into it. Consequently, the flames spread rapidly, and within moments, the entire vehicle burned to the ground.
Collector Siri reviews Kurnool bus fire tragedy, issues helpline
Kurnool District Collector Dr A. Siri visited the accident site and reviewed the rescue operations. Moreover, she said family members of the victims can contact the district control room for details on helpline number 08518-277305. Officials arranged on-the-spot post-mortem examinations, while the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team began work immediately. In addition, authorities confirmed that four members of one family lost their lives in the tragedy.
IG Koya Praveen seeks review of bus fire safety norms
Kurnool Range Inspector General of Police Koya Praveen said the accident exposed major flaws in private bus design. He explained that operators often ignore fire safety and use materials that intensify flames. “Such construction offers no protection to passengers,” he said.
Furthermore, the IG urged the government to conduct a detailed review of bus fire safety standards and material use. The bus carried 39 passengers, including two children. Some passengers broke windows and escaped with minor injuries. However, many others got trapped as thick smoke filled the air-conditioned sleeper coach.
Meanwhile, the IG added that the bus door failed to open, and the narrow exit prevented several passengers from escaping. He said the construction materials fueled the fire and worsened the casualties.