As overnight tragedy strikes Bengaluru-bound bus with 44 passengers on NH-44 , transport authorities point to violations by private operators

A Bengaluru-bound private sleeper bus from Hyderabad erupted into flames early Friday near Chinnatekur village, Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh, after a motorcycle collided with it and got trapped under the vehicle. The friction sparked a fire that quickly engulfed the bus’s fuel tank. At least 25 people died, while several others sustained injuries. Survivors described frantic escapes through windows and emergency exits. The bus was carrying 44 passengers, including the driver and conductor, along NH-44.

Death toll soared

Most passengers were asleep during the overnight journey, making them vulnerable to the sudden blaze. The bus doors failed

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