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Driving while intoxicated

19 Killed in Hyderabad-Bengaluru Bus Fire as Drunk Biker's Reckless Act Sparks Nationwide Outrage

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A tragic incident occurred on National Highway 44 in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool where a private sleeper bus caught fire after colliding with a fallen motorbike. The fire resulted in the loss of 19 lives, and an investigation revealed that the accident was caused by a biker who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol. The incident has sparked outrage, with Hyderabad police commissioner VC Sajjanar strongly condemning drunk driving, calling it an act of "terror." The police have pledged to show "no mercy" to those found driving under the influence and have vowed to punish such acts accordingly.

Key Takeaways:

  • At least 19 people were charred to death in the bus fire after it collided with a fallen motorbike on National Highway 44 in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool.
  • The accident was caused by a biker who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol, lost control of the motorbike, and died on the spot.
  • The Hyderabad police commissioner, VC Sajjanar, condemned drunk driving, terming it an act of "terror" and stating that drunk drivers are "terrorists" who destroy lives, families, and futures.
  • Sajjanar vowed to show "no mercy" to anyone found driving under the influence and pledged to punish such acts accordingly.
  • The Bengaluru-bound bus, operated by Vemuri Kaveri Travels, was severely damaged in the fire, and the biker's motorbike was left lying on the highway.
  • The police investigation revealed that the biker, Panchala Shiva Shankar, 20, and his friend Erriswamy were returning to Tuggali after refuelling their motorbike at a nearby station.
  • CCTV footage confirmed the presence of the bikers at the petrol station, and it was evident that Shankar was under the influence of alcohol.

Statistics:

  • 19 people were killed in the bus fire.
  • The incident occurred at 2.39 am on a stretch of National Highway 44 in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool.
  • The biker, Panchala Shiva Shankar, was 20 years old and from Lakshmipuram village.
  • The motorbike was a Pulsar, and the petrol was worth Rs.300.
  • Hyderabad police commissioner VC Sajjanar issued a strong condemnation of drunk driving, labelling it an act of "terror."

Sources:

  • Hindustan Times

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