PM Modi Condoles Karnataka Bus–Truck Accident, Announces ₹2 Lakh Ex-Gratia for Victims
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over a tragic road accident in Karnataka’s Chitradurga. The accident claimed at least nine lives and left several others injured.
The Prime Minister announced financial assistance from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF), providing ₹2 lakh to the families of each deceased victim and ₹50,000 to those injured.
Bus Carrying 32 Passengers Catches Fire After Collision
The accident occurred early Thursday morning on a highway in Chitradurga district. According to police officials, a private bus carrying around 32 passengers rammed into a speeding truck from behind. The impact triggered a massive fire, engulfing the bus within minutes.
Eyewitnesses said flames spread rapidly, leaving passengers with little time to escape. Many victims suffered severe burn injuries, while several were trapped inside the bus. Local residents rushed to the spot and attempted rescue operations before fire services arrived.
Emergency teams later shifted the injured to nearby hospitals, where doctors described the condition of some passengers as critical.
Prime Minister Expresses Condolences
Reacting to the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he felt deeply saddened by the loss of lives. He conveyed condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.
In an official statement shared by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on X, the Prime Minister said financial assistance would be provided immediately to the affected families.
“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in the Chitradurga district of Karnataka. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest,” the statement read.
₹2 Lakh Ex-Gratia for Deceased, ₹50,000 for Injured
The Prime Minister announced that the next of kin of each deceased victim would receive ₹2 lakh from the PMNRF. Injured passengers would get ₹50,000 each to support medical treatment and recovery.
Officials said district authorities have begun compiling verified lists of victims to ensure timely disbursal of compensation. The Karnataka government has also assured full support to the affected families.
Police Launch Investigation Into Cause
Local police registered a case and launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. Preliminary findings suggest overspeeding by the truck may have led to the collision. Authorities are examining CCTV footage and vehicle records to fix responsibility.
Officials also said they would inspect the bus for safety compliance, including emergency exits and fire safety measures. The truck driver reportedly fled the scene, and police teams have begun a search to trace him.
Rising Concerns Over Highway Safety
The Chitradurga accident has once again highlighted concerns over road safety on national and state highways. Frequent cases of overspeeding, poor visibility during early morning hours, and lack of strict enforcement continue to cause fatal accidents.
Road safety experts stressed the need for stricter speed monitoring, regular vehicle inspections, and better emergency response systems to prevent such tragedies.
