Karnataka: At least nine people lost their lives in a devastating road accident in Karnataka’s Chitradurga district in the early hours of Thursday, after a high-speed truck rammed into a luxury sleeper bus, triggering a massive fire.
According to senior police officials, the bus was carrying 32 passengers and was traveling towards Gokarna when the collision occurred. Preliminary findings indicate that the truck crossed the road divider and struck the oncoming bus head-on. The force of the impact caused the bus to catch fire, leading to multiple fatalities.
East Zone Inspector General of Police Ravikanthe Gowda said most of the victims were trapped inside the bus when the fire broke out. Eight passengers from the bus and the truck driver have been confirmed dead. The bus driver and cleaner managed to escape, while several passengers survived by jumping out of the vehicle moments after the crash.
Twelve people sustained injuries in the incident. Of these, nine were shifted to a hospital in Sira and three to Tumakuru. One critically injured patient was later referred to Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru for specialized treatment. Police said the remaining injured passengers are currently stable and out of danger.
Investigators are also examining the possible involvement of a diesel tanker, which may have contributed to the fire following the collision. Forensic teams are working at the site, and authorities have stated that DNA tests will be conducted to establish the identities of the deceased.
In a narrow escape, another bus carrying 42 schoolchildren was traveling behind the affected vehicle at the time of the accident. Its driver reportedly swerved to avoid the burning bus, veering off the road. No injuries were reported, and the children later continued their journey in a different vehicle. Police noted that the school bus driver is a key eyewitness and his statement will be recorded.
Officials added that most passengers on the ill-fated bus had booked their tickets online, enabling authorities to obtain contact details. Efforts are underway to inform families and provide necessary assistance as the investigation continues.
