Horror on Karnataka highway: sleeper bus bursts into flames after truck crash, 9 killed

The bus, operated by Seabird Tourist, was carrying 32 passengers and was travelling from Bengaluru to Gokarna when the accident occurred on a national highway.

According to reports, the container truck, which was travelling in the opposite direction, lost control, jumped the median and rammed into the bus.

The impact was severe and hit the bus’s diesel tank, leading to an immediate fire.

Police have so far recovered five bodies, while several others remain untraceable as rescue and search operations continue.

The bus driver, cleaner and conductor reportedly managed to escape the accident.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 to those injured.

“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 those injured recover at the earliest,” the Prime Minister wrote on X.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also announced compensation of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.

In a post on X, Siddaramaiah said he had directed officials to provide immediate assistance to those affected and ordered an investigation into the incident.

“An investigation will be conducted, the cause of the accident will be identified and necessary measures will be taken. I pray that those injured recover at the earliest and that the souls of the deceased attain peace,” he said.