Bus blaze near Rayavaram shocks Andhra Pradesh; toll feared
Bus blaze near Rayavaram shocks Andhra Pradesh; toll feared
A Harikrishna Travels bus collided with a tipper near Rayavaram, catching fire and injuring dozens as authorities rush to aid victims and investigate the cause.
A private travel bus belonging to Harikrishna Travels collided with a tipper near Rayavaram in Markapuram district, Andhra Pradesh, while on a route from Nirmal in Telangana to Nellore. The crash triggered a blaze, with flames and smoke rising as rescuers worked to reach passengers.
Preliminary reports indicate that several passengers were killed and at least 20 were injured, with the injured being shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities fear the death toll may rise as responders continue the rescue and assessment. There were also reports that some passengers were burnt alive in the blaze.
The Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, expressed deep anguish over the tragedy and directed officials to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured and to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the causes of the accident. Former Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy also expressed shock and grief, urging immediate financial assistance to bereaved families and advanced medical care for the injured, along with a thorough investigation and stricter road-safety measures. Several ministers offered condolences and ordered officials to expedite rescue and relief operations while enforcing road-safety norms.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety on major corridors, and investigators are expected to examine potential factors such as driver error, vehicle fault, or other hazards. The government has pledged accountability and swift action as the investigation unfolds.
