At least 19 people lost their lives after a Hyderabad-bound private luxury bus caught fire in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district early Friday morning. The bus, carrying around 40 passengers along with two drivers, was travelling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru when it collided with a two-wheeler on National Highway 44 near Chinnatekur village. The impact caused sparks that triggered a massive blaze, engulfing the entire vehicle within minutes.
Officials confirmed that most of the passengers were asleep when the fire broke out around 3:30 am. Survivors managed to escape by breaking open emergency windows and jumping out, as the main exit door had jammed due to snapped electrical wires. Several passengers sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The two-wheeler rider was also killed in the crash. Firefighters and local police rushed to the scene but were unable to save many trapped inside due to the intensity of the flames. By the time the fire was brought under control, the bus had been completely destroyed.
Authorities have identified the vehicle as a seven-year-old bus registered in Odisha, with its fitness certificate valid until 2027. Investigations are underway to determine whether safety lapses or technical faults contributed to the tragedy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and announced financial assistance for the victims’ families. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also extended condolences and assured government support for those affected.
The horrific accident has revived memories of the 2013 Mahbubnagar bus fire, which claimed 45 lives on the same Hyderabad–Bengaluru route. Rescue teams continue to search the charred remains of the vehicle to ensure no passengers are unaccounted for, as the nation mourns yet another devastating highway tragedy.
