A devastating road accident on National Highway 48 in Karnataka’s Chitradurga district claimed multiple lives in the early hours of Thursday after a fuel tanker jumped the central divider and rammed into a private sleeper coach, triggering a massive fire. The collision, which occurred within seconds, engulfed the bus in flames and left several passengers trapped inside, officials said.
The crash took place around 3 a.m. near Gorlath Cross in Hiriyur taluk. According to police, the tanker was travelling at high speed when it lost control, crossed the median, and collided head-on with the oncoming sleeper bus. The impact caused the tanker to catch fire almost instantly, with flames spreading rapidly to the bus.
Eyewitnesses and first responders described scenes of chaos and panic as fire consumed the vehicle parked in the middle of the highway. Several passengers struggled to escape while others remained trapped inside as the blaze intensified.
Casualties and Rescue Operations
Authorities confirmed that the crash has claimed at least five lives so far, while several others suffered serious burn injuries. Emergency services rushed to the site soon after receiving distress calls. Fire and rescue teams battled the flames for hours before bringing the situation under control.
Police said the sleeper bus was carrying 29 passengers 15 women and 14 men against a seating capacity of 32. Of these, 25 passengers were from Gokarna, while the remaining were from Kumta and Shivamogga.
Some passengers managed to escape moments after the collision by jumping out of the bus. However, those seated deeper inside the sleeper compartments had little time to react before flames spread.
Rescue teams transported the injured to nearby hospitals for treatment. Officials said several victims remain in critical condition.
Tanker Driver Dies; Negligence Suspected
Preliminary investigations point to negligence on the part of the tanker driver. Police identified the driver as Kuldeep, who died in the crash. Officers said he may have lost control of the vehicle due to speeding or fatigue, though a detailed investigation is underway.
“The tanker jumped the divider and hit the bus head-on,” a senior police official said. “The fire spread within seconds because the vehicle was carrying fuel.”
Investigators are also examining whether mechanical failure or poor road conditions contributed to the accident.
School Bus Involved, Students Safe
Adding to the gravity of the incident, a school bus travelling parallel to the sleeper coach also collided with the burning wreckage, according to Inspector General of Police B.R. Ravikante Gowda.
“All 48 students on board the school bus escaped without injuries,” he said. “The school bus driver is an eyewitness to the incident.”
Authorities confirmed that quick action by the school bus driver prevented further casualties.
Government Response and Compensation
The Prime Minister’s Office expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives. In a post on X, the PMO announced ex-gratia compensation from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in the Chitradurga district of Karnataka,” the PMO said. “An ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh will be given to the next of kin of each deceased, and ₹50,000 to the injured.”
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also expressed shock and grief. He called the incident “heartbreaking” and ordered a thorough investigation.
“Hearing the tragic news of passengers being burnt alive has left hearts trembling,” the Chief Minister said. “The journey of those returning home for Christmas has ended in tragedy. A detailed probe must uncover the exact cause.”
Traffic Disruption on NH-48
The accident caused a massive traffic jam on NH-48, one of Karnataka’s busiest highways. Vehicles remained stranded for nearly 30 kilometres up to Shiravar, police said.
Authorities diverted traffic and cleared debris after several hours. Normal movement resumed only later in the day.
Investigation Underway
Chitradurga Superintendent of Police Ranjith visited the site to supervise rescue and investigation efforts. Police registered a case at Hiriyur Rural Police Station.
Officials are examining CCTV footage, vehicle maintenance records, and eyewitness accounts. They are also assessing highway safety measures, including divider design and visibility conditions.
A Grim Reminder of Highway Safety Risks
The tragedy once again highlights the dangers posed by high-speed traffic, fuel tankers, and long-distance night travel on Indian highways. Experts say stricter enforcement of speed limits, improved monitoring of hazardous vehicles, and better emergency response systems are urgently needed.
As families mourn their loved ones, authorities face renewed pressure to prevent such catastrophic accidents and ensure safer highways for commuters across the country.
Police said further details would emerge as the investigation progresses.
