New Delhi, Oct 24 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in a tragic bus accident in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said:“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.”
More than 25 passengers were charred to death and several others sustained injuries when a private luxury sleeper bus traveling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru caught fire near Chinnatekuru village in Kurnool district early Friday morning.
The bus, which was carrying around 40 passengers, reportedly caught fire after colliding with a motorbike coming from the opposite direction at around 3:30 am. Flames erupted from the front portion of the vehicle and spread rapidly, causing the fuel tank to explode.
Witnesses said the impact was so severe that the bus was engulfed in flames within seconds. Many passengers, who were asleep at the time, woke up amid panic and chaos. Several were trapped inside due to thick smoke and limited access to the exits, while a few managed to escape through the emergency exit, sustaining minor injuries.
Prime Minister Modi announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh each from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of those deceased, and Rs 50,000 each for the injured.
He also directed authorities to ensure that all possible support and medical care are provided to the victims.
The Prime Minister’s condolences and relief measures come as rescue teams and local officials continue operations to provide relief and assistance to those impacted by the mishap.
