Major Fire Incident on Hyderabad-Bengaluru Route
In a heartbreaking incident early Friday, October 24, 2025, over 25 passengers reportedly lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries when a luxury private bus traveling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru caught fire near Chinnatekuru village in Kurnool district. The private sleeper coach was carrying around 40 passengers at the time of the accident.
Collision Sparks Rapid Blaze
The tragedy unfolded around 3:30 a.m. when the bus collided with a motorcycle coming from the opposite direction. Flames erupted almost instantly from the front section of the bus, spreading rapidly and causing the fuel tank to explode. Passengers, who were asleep, were jolted awake amidst chaos and screams. Many were trapped inside due to confusion and blocked exits, while a few managed to escape through the emergency doors, suffering only minor injuries.
Rescue Efforts Hampered by Weather
Local residents near the accident site rushed to assist in the rescue operation. However, heavy rain hindered efforts to control the fire, and the bus was completely gutted before fire tenders could arrive. According to the police, both the driver and the bus attendant went missing immediately after the accident, complicating the investigation.
Government Officials Respond to the Tragedy
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the families of the deceased. He instructed state officials to coordinate with Andhra Pradesh authorities for relief measures and requested the immediate establishment of a helpline for victims and their families. CM Reddy also directed the Gadwal District Collector and Superintendent of Police to visit the accident site.
AP Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu Reacts
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, currently on a UAE tour, conveyed shock and heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families. The Hyderabad-Bengaluru bus reportedly caught fire after colliding with a motorcycle near Chinnatekuru, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people and injuries to several others, who were hospitalized locally in Kurnool. CM Naidu assured that all possible support would be extended to the injured and affected families and instructed senior officials to take urgent relief measures while prioritizing the treatment of the severely burned victims.
Investigation and Relief Measures Underway
Authorities from both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are investigating the incident, coordinating emergency services, and providing assistance to survivors and families. The focus remains on rescue operations, medical aid, and uncovering the precise cause of the collision and subsequent fire.
