A tragic road accident in Andhra Pradesh’s Prakasam district claimed at least 13 lives after a private bus collided with a lorry and burst into flames, leaving behind scenes of devastation and panic.
The accident took place near Rayavaram in the early hours, when the bus, carrying several passengers, crashed into a tipper lorry on the highway. Within moments of the impact, the vehicle caught fire—reportedly due to a fuel leak—turning the bus into a raging inferno.
Passengers had little time to react. As flames spread rapidly, many were trapped inside, unable to escape. Some victims are believed to have died on the spot, engulfed by the fire. Survivors later recounted the terrifying moments, describing how the bus filled with smoke and panic as people struggled to find a way out.
A few passengers managed to break windows and jump to safety, suffering injuries in the process. Around 20 to 28 people were hurt, with several in critical condition. They were rushed to nearby hospitals, where doctors are continuing treatment.
Emergency services and local residents quickly reached the scene, trying to douse the flames and rescue those trapped. However, the intensity of the fire made rescue efforts extremely difficult. By the time the blaze was brought under control, the bus had been almost completely gutted.
Authorities said the bus was travelling from Telangana towards Andhra Pradesh. While the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation, initial reports suggest that the force of the collision triggered the fire, possibly after the lorry’s fuel tank was hit.
Also Read: Hormuz stays safe and open for India
