In a significant development in the Kurnool bus fire tragedy that claimed 20 lives earlier this week, the Andhra Pradesh Police have arrested the driver of the ill-fated vehicle, M. Lakshmaiah (45). The arrest, made on Friday and formally recorded on Sunday, marks a major step forward in the ongoing investigation into one of the most horrific road accidents in recent times.
How the Accident Unfolded
According to initial reports, the private bus caught fire after it collided with a stationary motorcycle on the Kurnool highway. The bike had reportedly been involved in a prior accident and was left lying on the road. When the bus hit it, the vehicle was dragged for nearly 300 meters, triggering a fuel leak and a subsequent fire that rapidly engulfed the bus.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos and panic as flames spread swiftly, leaving passengers trapped inside. Despite the efforts of the second driver and local residents, 20 passengers lost their lives in the inferno, while several others sustained severe burn injuries.
Forensic Findings: Role of the Motorbike Confirmed
A forensic report has since confirmed that the bike rider was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident, further complicating the sequence of events. This revelation has added new dimensions to the case, highlighting the multiple failures human, mechanical, and systemic that led to the disaster.
Police officials stated that the bus driver, M. Lakshmaiah, was driving at a speed between 80–90 km/h at the time of the accident. Though not excessive for highway conditions, authorities believe the driver may have been unable to anticipate the presence of the damaged bike on a poorly lit and rain-drenched stretch of road.
Police Investigation and Arrest
Confirming the arrest, senior police officials stated that Lakshmaiah had not absconded and had been cooperating with the investigation since the tragedy occurred. “We issued a notice for him to appear before the investigation team, and he complied. After reviewing all available evidence and eyewitness accounts, his arrest was recorded under relevant IPC sections,” an official said.
The second driver, identified as Shiva Narayana (30), was praised for his quick response in breaking windows and helping trapped passengers escape. Authorities have clarified that he will not face charges, as his actions were instrumental in saving lives during the critical moments after the collision.
Eyewitness and Survivor Accounts
The police also recorded statements from survivors, including Yerri Swamy (20), the pillion rider on the motorcycle involved in the crash. Swamy was taken to the accident site to reconstruct the event sequence. According to his statement, two other buses had safely passed the same location minutes before the ill-fated bus struck the bike, suggesting that visibility and alertness may have been key contributing factors.
Victims’ families have demanded a comprehensive safety audit of private transport operators in Andhra Pradesh, citing long-standing concerns over vehicle condition, driver fatigue, and lax enforcement of traffic norms.
Government Response and Next Steps
The Andhra Pradesh government has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and directed officials to extend full support to the victims’ families. A high-level inquiry has been ordered to assess not only the driver’s responsibility but also the operating company’s adherence to safety protocols.
Authorities have also called for a review of highway lighting, road maintenance, and emergency response infrastructure in vulnerable zones. Discussions are underway to mandate advanced driver training and emergency safety equipment on all long-distance buses operating across the state.
A senior transport official commented, “This incident underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms in passenger transport safety. We are focusing on preventive steps from stricter route inspections to digital vehicle tracking systems to ensure no such tragedy repeats.”
Focus on Accountability and Road Safety
Legal experts have pointed out that the investigation’s findings will likely determine whether the driver faces charges of culpable homicide or negligence under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code. However, beyond the criminal liability, the broader question remains how can Andhra Pradesh strengthen its road safety mechanisms to prevent recurring tragedies?
With over 4,000 road fatalities reported annually in the state, the Kurnool bus fire serves as a stark reminder that driver awareness, infrastructure resilience, and swift response coordination are critical components of public safety.
A Call for Systemic Change
As the investigation progresses, the tragedy has reignited public debate over the state’s transportation safety systems. Citizens and activists alike are urging for stricter compliance measures, improved vehicle maintenance checks, and zero tolerance for violations involving passenger transport.
The Andhra Pradesh Police have assured transparency and thoroughness in their investigation, while the Transport Department has promised corrective policy actions. For now, the state mourns its losses and looks ahead to reforms that could ensure safer journeys for millions of commuters.
