Bus bursts into flames, killing 20 people after collision with bike in Andhra

In an unfortunate accident in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district, a Bengaluru-bound private sleeper bus, carrying around 40 passengers, was engulfed in a deadly fire. The accident took place in the early hours of Friday morning, resulting in a significant loss of life. Initial reports indicated at least 12 people perished in the tragedy, though later updates from officials confirmed the death toll to be over 20, with several bodies charred beyond recognition.

The private sleeper bus, operated by Kaveri Travels, commenced its overnight journey from Hyderabad around midnight. The horrifying incident occurred on National Highway 44 near Ulindakonda, on the outskirts of Kurnool city, at approximately 3:30 a.m. Preliminary investigation suggests the blaze was triggered by a collision involving a two-wheeler.

According to eyewitness and police accounts, a motorcycle, reportedly coming from behind, collided with the moving bus and became dragged underneath the vehicle. With the two-wheeler's fuel cap open, the resulting friction and ruptured parts immediately sparked a fire. The blaze quickly erupted from the front undercarriage, spreading with terrifying speed through the luxury coach.

Only a small number of passengers, estimated at around 12 to 19, including two drivers and two children mentioned by DIG Koya Praveen, managed to escape the burning vehicle. Most survivors were forced to break open windows or flee through the emergency exit. Eyewitnesses reported hearing desperate screams for help before the bus was completely consumed by the inferno.