Bus-truck collision: 13 killed on spot, 25 injured
A private travel bus belonging to Harikrishna Travels, which was traveling from Telangana to Nellore, collided head-on with a gravel-laden tipper truck.
Bus-truck collision: A horrific accident occurred early this morning, Thursday, March 26, 2026, near Rayavaram in the Markapuram district of Andhra Pradesh. Bus-truck collision: 13 killed on spot, 25 injured.
A private travel bus belonging to Harikrishna Travels, which was traveling from Telangana to Nellore, collided head-on with a gravel-laden tipper truck. The impact caused the bus’s diesel tank to burst, instantly engulfing the vehicle in flames.
Current reports indicate at least 13 to 14 people have been charred to death. While initial reports mentioned 10, the death toll has risen as rescue teams retrieve more bodies from the wreckage.
Approximately 20 to 25 passengers sustained injuries. At least five are reported to be in critical condition and are being shifted to Guntur Government General Hospital (GGH) for advanced treatment.
Preliminary investigations suggest the accident happened at a sharp turn near a slate quarry. The tipper truck was allegedly overspeeding, and the collision occurred between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM while most passengers were asleep.
About 10 passengers seated in the front section of the bus managed to escape the flames, but those in the rear were trapped as the doors jammed due to the impact.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has expressed deep shock and directed district authorities to ensure the best medical care for the survivors. He has also ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the cause of the crash.
A control room has been set up in Markapuram to provide information to family members. Since the bus was destined for Vinjamuru/Pamuru, many victims are believed to be from the SPSR Nellore and Prakasam districts.
The fire was so intense that both the bus and the truck were reduced to charred skeletal frames. Emergency teams remain on-site to clear the wreckage.
