At Least 20 Killed as Hyderabad-Bengaluru Bus Catches Fire Near Kurnool

In a devastating accident early Friday, at least 20 people were burned to death after a Hyderabad-bound private bus caught fire near Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh.

According to officials, 44 passengers were onboard when the vehicle burst into flames around 3:30 a.m. on National Highway 44.

How the accident happened
Preliminary reports suggest the bus rammed into a motorcycle, which got trapped underneath and struck the fuel tank, triggering a massive explosion. Police said the flames quickly engulfed the vehicle, and the door jammed due to a short circuit, leaving passengers trapped inside as the fire spread rapidly.

Casualties and survivors
Most of the victims were asleep when the fire broke out. A few passengers, including two children and the drivers, managed to escape by breaking the windows. Many of the survivors are believed to be between 25 and 35 years old.

Police said both drivers fled the scene after the crash. A search has been launched to trace them, and a case has been registered.

Rescue operations
Local residents rushed to the site after hearing screams from the bus and tried to help passengers before fire tenders arrived. Four fire engines were deployed to extinguish the blaze, but the vehicle was already reduced to ashes. The injured were taken to the Kurnool Government General Hospital for treatment.

Reactions and official response
President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep sorrow, saying she was “deeply pained” by the loss of lives and offered condolences to the bereaved families.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, currently on an official visit to Dubai, directed officials to provide the best medical care to the injured and ensure full support for the victims’ families. He also ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident.

Forensic teams have been deployed to identify the charred remains, and DNA tests may be required to confirm identities.

The tragedy has cast a pall of gloom over Kurnool and Hyderabad, as anxious relatives await word about their loved ones.