Kurnool bus tragedy: PM Modi announces ₹2 lakh aid as 20 die in bus inferno sparked by midnight crash

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 24 expressed deep sorrow over the Kurnool bus tragedy, which claimed 20 lives and left many injured, describing it as “heartbreaking.”

In a message shared by on X, Modi said, “Extremely saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

Modi also announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh each from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for those injured.

In a horrific tragedy that unfolded in the early hours of October 24, at least 20 people were charred to death when a Hyderabad–Bengaluru Volvo bus burst into flames after a motorcycle collided with it in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district.

The accident occurred between 3:00 and 3:10 am near Chinna Tekur village, leaving behind a scene of devastation and horror.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the motorcycle’s collision ruptured the bus’s fuel tank, triggering a massive blaze that engulfed the vehicle within minutes. Of the 41 passengers on board, 21 managed to escape unhurt, while several others sustained burn injuries before rescuers could reach the spot.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu termed the tragedy “devastating” and said his government would extend every possible support to the victims and their families.

“I am shocked to learn about the devastating bus fire accident near Chinna Tekur village in Kurnool district. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of those who have lost their loved ones,” Naidu posted on X.

President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her condolences, calling the incident “deeply unfortunate” and wishing the injured a speedy recovery.

Authorities have launched a detailed investigation to confirm the exact cause of the blaze. Early reports indicate that the intense heat and rapid spread of fire prevented several passengers from escaping, highlighting the need for stricter safety measures on long-distance routes.