Speeding bus rams Metro guard-rail in Behala; 10 injured

A private bus on Kolkata’s busy 12C route crashed into the guardrail of the Metro in Behala on Monday afternoon, injuring at least 10 passengers and reigniting debate over the city’s public transport safety. The collision occurred around 1 pm, twisting the front of the vehicle and shattering its glass. Panic swept through the bus as passengers were thrown from their seats. Emergency responders quickly evacuated the injured to a nearby hospital, while police seized the vehicle for investigation.

Preliminary reports suggest the bus was travelling at high speed before the driver lost control and slammed into the Metro’s roadside guardrail. Authorities are examining whether mechanical failure, driver error or over-speeding played a role in the incident. Statements from the driver, conductor, and injured passengers will be recorded, and the extent of infrastructure damage is being assessed.

The accident caused heavy traffic congestion in the surrounding area and comes just a day after a separate bus accident near Kolkata Airport, where a government bus caught fire but passengers escaped unhurt. The back-to-back incidents have sparked concern among commuters, who cite overloading, poor vehicle maintenance, and driver negligence as persistent risks on the city’s roads.

Transport safety experts and passengers are urging authorities to increase checks on both government and private buses. They warn that without stricter enforcement of speed limits, regular maintenance, and driver accountability, Kolkata’s roads will continue to witness dangerous and avoidable mishaps.