Kurnool Bus Fire Tragedy: Multiple Dead on Hyderabad-Bengaluru Highway, PM Modi and CM Naidu React

Tragedy on the highway: Lives lost, leaders respond, safety questioned

A horrific accident on the Hyderabad-Bengaluru highway has claimed multiple lives after a Volvo bus traveling from Vijayawada to Bengaluru caught fire near Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, when the bus reportedly collided with a road divider and burst into flames, trapping several passengers inside. Initial reports confirm that at least 12 people have died, with many others sustaining injuries.

The Kurnool bus fire tragedy has sparked nationwide grief and concern, drawing immediate responses from top political leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating, “Pained by the bus accident in Kurnool. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover soon.” In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Modi also announced ex-gratia financial assistance of ₹2 lakh each to the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured, to be provided from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF).

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reacted to the tragedy, calling it “heart-wrenching.” He assured that the state government would extend all necessary support to the victims and their families. CM Naidu has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident, focusing on the bus operator’s safety compliance and the circumstances that led to the fire.

Eyewitness accounts describe a terrifying scene as the bus was engulfed in flames within minutes of the crash. Many passengers were asleep at the time, leaving little opportunity for escape. Rescue teams faced significant challenges due to the intensity of the fire, and forensic experts are working to identify the deceased. Survivors have been admitted to nearby hospitals, and their condition is being closely monitored.

The Hyderabad-Bengaluru highway accident has reignited public debate over the safety standards of long-distance buses, particularly premium services like Volvo buses. Experts and activists are urging authorities to mandate fire suppression systems, conduct regular vehicle inspections, and implement driver fatigue monitoring protocols. These measures could play a crucial role in preventing similar tragedies in the future.

This incident also raises questions about emergency preparedness and response times on national highways. Despite being a major route, the delay in rescue operations highlights the need for better infrastructure and quicker access to emergency services.

The Kurnool tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities in India’s road transport system. As investigations continue, the nation mourns the lives lost and hopes for accountability and reform. The government’s response and the outcome of the inquiry will be closely watched, as citizens demand safer travel conditions and stricter enforcement of transport regulations.

In the wake of this disaster, both state and central authorities are expected to review existing policies and introduce new safety mandates. The tragedy has united voices across political and social spectrums, calling for immediate action to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

As families grieve and survivors recover, the country stands in solidarity with those affected. The Kurnool bus fire is not just a local tragedy—it is a national wake-up call for better safety, accountability, and compassion.