Kurnool: The devastating bus fire in Kurnool district that killed 20 people early Friday has triggered widespread public anger, with allegations that the vehicle lacked valid fitness certification and had multiple pending challans. In response, the management of Vemuri Kaveri Travels has denied any negligence, asserting that all required documents were valid and that the bus was fully insured.
In a statement, company owner Vemuri Venkateshwarlu said the fire was accidental and occurred after a motorcyclist lost control on the rain-soaked highway and collided with the bus around 3:30 a.m. “Flames from the bike spread under the bus, causing the fire near the main door. Some passengers were trapped, but our drivers broke the windows with iron rods to help others escape. All our fitness certificates are valid, and every passenger is covered under travel insurance,” he said. The management expressed condolences to the bereaved families and assured full cooperation with the investigation.
However, officials who inspected the accident site have pointed to serious safety lapses. They reported that the bus lacked basic fire safety equipment such as foam extinguishers and hammers for emergency exits. The vehicle was reportedly traveling at around 100 kmph when the accident occurred. Eyewitnesses alleged that the driver’s delay in stopping and alerting passengers contributed to the tragedy. Investigators are now examining whether negligence by the driver or management played a role in the fatal fire that left 20 people, including the motorcyclist, dead.