12 Killed As Private Bus Collides With Lorry And Catches Fire In Andhra Pradesh

At least twelve people were killed early Thursday morning after a private travel bus collided with a tipper lorry and caught fire in Andhra Pradesh’s Markapuram district, officials said. The bus, operated by Harikrishna Travels, was en route from Nirmal in Telangana to Nellore when the accident occurred around 6:00 am. Several passengers were reportedly trapped inside the vehicle and burned alive following the collision.

Initial reports had put the death toll at eight, with about 18 injured passengers rescued and shifted to nearby hospitals. District authorities said around 20 people remain under treatment for burn injuries and other trauma, and they cautioned that the death count could rise as rescue and recovery operations continue.

Markapuram Deputy Superintendent of Police Nagraju confirmed the severity of the incident, stating that emergency teams are working to gather complete details of the collision. Firefighters and local police responded immediately to contain the blaze and evacuate survivors.

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Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed shock and grief over the tragic accident, particularly noting that several passengers were burned alive. He held consultations with officials to review the situation, including the medical treatment provided to the injured, and directed a thorough investigation into the causes of the accident.

Information Technology Minister Nara Lokesh also expressed condolences, calling the incident “very painful” and urging authorities to ensure proper care for the injured. He affirmed that the government would support the families of victims in every possible way and prayed for the speedy recovery of those hospitalized.

The collision has raised questions about road safety standards and passenger transport regulations in the region. Authorities are investigating the sequence of events leading to the crash, including the speed, road conditions, and mechanical status of both vehicles involved.

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