A private passenger bus collided with a tipper truck in the Markapuram district of India's southern Andhra Pradesh state in the early hours of Thursday morning, triggering a massive fire that quickly engulfed both vehicles. The bus was traveling from Nirmal in Telangana to Nellore in Andhra Pradesh at approximately 6:00 AM local time when the accident occurred. Authorities reported that at least 35 passengers were on board at the time of the collision.
Preliminary reports indicate that at least 13 people have died and over 20 others sustained injuries as a result of the fire. Officials cited by news agencies suggested that several passengers may have been burnt alive in the blaze. The injured were rushed to hospitals in Markapuram and nearby areas for emergency treatment, with some in critical condition.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed profound shock and grief over the tragedy, ordering an immediate probe into the cause of the accident and demanding a detailed report. In a statement posted on social media, Naidu said, "The tragic loss of 13 passengers, who were burnt alive in a horrific road accident near Rayavaram in Markapuram district, has caused profound shock. I extend my deepest condolences to the families of those who have died. The government will stand by the affected families."
The office of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced compensation of ₹200,000 (approximately €1,840) for the family of each deceased victim and ₹50,000 (about €460) for each injured person. A statement from the Prime Minister's office read, "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."
This incident marks the second major bus-related accident in Andhra Pradesh in recent weeks. Last week, another private bus caught fire following a tyre burst in the Vizianagaram district, though no injuries were reported in that case. The latest tragedy has reignited concerns about road safety and vehicle maintenance standards in the region.
Source: www.dw.com