7 Killed in Fiery Bus Collision in Karnataka; Probe Launched
Image Source: Internet
A devastating collision between a private sleeper bus and a container truck in Karnataka's Chitradurga district has claimed seven lives, including the bus driver who succumbed to injuries on Friday. The accident occurred on Thursday when the truck rammed into the bus, sparking a massive fire that engulfed the vehicle. Five passengers and the truck driver were killed instantly. The bus driver, Mohammed Rafeek, 38, was critically injured in the crash and was initially treated at a hospital in Hiriyur before being shifted to the Chitradurga Government Hospital. He was later airlifted to the Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences in Hubballi, where he died early Friday morning. Investigations suggest that the bus, operated by Seabird Tourist, was properly maintained and had valid certificates. Transport officials said that the bus had passed a surprise inspection conducted by the department on November 12. The transport and road safety commissioner, Yogish AM, has announced plans to draft a revised standard operating procedure for vehicles traveling at night, including buses and trucks. The collision has sparked concerns over road safety, prompting transport minister Ramalinga Reddy to assure that safety rules will be strictly enforced. 'Bus safety is of utmost importance,' he said. 'We ensure that safety rules are not violated. We also check the firefighting equipment used in buses.' Among the survivors is Gaganashree, who is currently admitted at a private hospital in Bengaluru and is in stable condition. She described narrowly escaping the flames along with her friend Rakshita, saying, 'We jumped out immediately, but Rashmi was trapped inside. The fire spread rapidly just as she was preparing to jump.'
