India News : A major road accident was reported late Wednesday night in Karnataka’s Chitradurga district, where a sleeper bus caught fire after colliding with a speeding lorry on National Highway-48 near Hiriyur taluk. More than 10 passengers lost their lives, while several others sustained serious injuries.
According to media reports, the death toll could range between 12 and 17, though an official confirmation is still awaited. The private sleeper bus, operated by Seabird Transport, was travelling from Bengaluru to Gokarna with over 30 passengers on board. The accident occurred around 2:30 am, when most passengers were asleep.
Lorry Crossed Divider, Hit Bus Head-On
Eyewitnesses said the lorry broke through the road divider and entered the wrong lane, crashing into the bus at high speed. Following the impact, a fire broke out in the front portion of the bus and quickly spread.
Due to the late hour and the sleeper layout of the bus, many passengers struggled to escape. Some managed to jump out through windows and doors, while others were trapped inside.
Bus Staff Safe, Lorry Crew Killed
East Zone Inspector General of Police Ravikant Gowda said the bus driver and cleaner managed to escape safely, while the lorry driver and cleaner died at the spot. Injured passengers were rushed to a hospital in Sira, Tumakuru district, where two are reported to be in critical condition.
School Bus Driver a Key Witness
A school bus travelling behind the sleeper bus narrowly avoided disaster. Its driver acted quickly by steering the vehicle off the road, preventing injuries to children on board. Police said the school bus driver is a key eyewitness, and his statement will be recorded.
Identification Through DNA Tests
Police officials said most passengers had booked tickets online, helping authorities contact families. As several bodies are severely damaged, DNA testing will be conducted for identification.
PM Announces Ex-Gratia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the incident. He announced ₹2 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. The Karnataka government has also directed officials to ensure proper medical care and relief.
Preliminary investigation suggests overspeeding and negligence as the primary causes of the accident. The tragedy has once again raised concerns over heavy vehicle safety, night-time monitoring on highways, and fire safety in sleeper buses.
