Two Bus Accidents in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh Leave 49 Passengers Injured
Karwar/Raichur: In two separate incidents reported over the weekend, passengers aboard two buses narrowly escaped death one in a road accident in Uttara Kannada‘s Ankola taluk, and another in a fire accident near Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh.
Karwar: KSRTC Bus Overturns in Waddi Ghat, 49 Injured:
On Saturday night, a KSRTC bus traveling from Ballari to Kumta via Waddi Ghat overturned three times and fell into a gorge, injuring 49 passengers, including the driver and conductor. The accident occurred due to a diversion in the usual route, as the Kumta-Sirsi highway was closed for construction.
The Waddi Ghat stretch is known for its sharp and dangerous curves, and the driver reportedly lost control while navigating one such bend.
Local residents rushed to the scene and helped rescue the injured, who were then transported to Ankola and Kumta hospitals using private vehicles. Officials from the transport department and Ankola police visited the site and registered a case.
Zilla Panchayat member G.M. Shetty urged authorities to widen and repair the ghat road to prevent future mishaps, citing its hazardous nature.
Raichur: Green Line Travels Bus Catches Fire, 32 Escape Unharmed:
In a separate incident on Thursday night, a Green Line Travels bus carrying 32 passengers caught fire near Anantapur, about 5 km from the city. The bus was en route from Bengaluru to Mantralaya and Raichur when the rear tire burst around 3 AM, triggering a blaze that quickly engulfed the vehicle.
Passengers lost personal belongings including documents, mobile phones, and laptops, but managed to escape thanks to their alertness. However, the driver allegedly failed to stop the bus immediately after the tire burst, continuing for nearly a kilometer before halting—delaying evacuation and increasing risk.
Passenger Nirmala Benne recounted the ordeal, stating that the driver’s negligence could have led to fatalities. The bus was completely destroyed in the fire.
