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Karnataka Bus Catches Fire After Truck Collision
At least ten people were killed after a private sleeper bus caught fire following a collision with a truck on National Highway-48 in Karnataka’s Chitradurga district in the early hours of Thursday. The accident occurred near Gorlathu Cross in Hiriyur taluk at around 2:30 am when the bus was travelling from Bengaluru to Shivamogga.
Bus Engulfed in Flames After Impact
According to police officials, the truck reportedly crossed the median and crashed head-on into the bus. The impact led to a massive fire, suspected to have been triggered after the bus’s fuel tank was damaged. Flames spread rapidly through the vehicle, leaving passengers with little time to escape. Several occupants were trapped inside as the bus burned.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Emergency services, including the fire department and local police, rushed to the spot. By the time the fire was brought under control, ten people were found dead. Several injured passengers were pulled out and shifted to nearby hospitals, where they are undergoing treatment for burn injuries and trauma. Officials said the condition of some injured persons remains critical.
Investigation and Official Response
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash, including whether overspeeding or driver error played a role. Traffic on the highway was temporarily disrupted as rescue and clearance operations were carried out. Senior officials visited the site, and compensation has been announced for the families of those who lost their lives, as well as for the injured.
Safety Concerns Raised
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over night-time travel safety on busy highways and the dangers posed by heavy vehicles crossing medians. Police said further action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
