Officials said the bus struck the lorry’s diesel tank, triggering a massive fire. The front portion of the bus was badly damaged, and several passengers are feared to have been trapped inside
A total of 35 passengers were on board at the time of the incident, officials said. Pic/PTI
At least 13 people were killed and 22 others were injured after a private bus collided with a tipper lorry and caught fire in the Markapuram area of Andhra Pradesh on Thursday morning, reported the PTI.
The accident took place near Rayavaram between 5:30 am and 6 am. The bus was travelling from Jagtiyal to Kaligiri when the collision occurred.
Officials said the bus struck the lorry’s diesel tank, triggering a massive fire. The front portion of the bus was badly damaged, and several passengers are feared to have been trapped inside.
A total of 35 passengers were on board at the time. Among the injured, three are reported to be in critical condition, according to the PTI.
Possible cause under investigation
Initial findings suggest that the bus may have veered into the opposite lane before the crash. The driver has reportedly claimed that the steering wheel became stuck, though this is yet to be confirmed by authorities, the news agency reported.
Leaders express grief
President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
"Deeply saddened to learn about the tragic bus accident in Markapuram district, Andhra Pradesh. I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. My thoughts and prayers are with them. I wish a speedy recovery to those injured," Murmu said on X.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his condolences and announced financial assistance. An ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh will be given to the families of each deceased, while the injured will receive Rs 50,000 from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
"The mishap in Markapuram district, Andhra Pradesh, is tragic. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000," PM Modi said.
State govt orders probe
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu described the incident as deeply shocking and has ordered a detailed inquiry. He directed officials to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured and promised full support to affected families, as per the PTI.
Meanwhile, Revanth Reddy also expressed concern and instructed officials to coordinate with Andhra Pradesh authorities to gather information and assist victims.
Rescue operations are ongoing, and a control room has been set up at the Markapuram Deputy Collector’s office to help families seeking information.
The cause of the accident was being investigated, officials said.
(with PTI inputs)
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