Kurla Bus Accident: 5 Dead, 30-35 Injured as BEST Bus Loses Control
A tragic accident involving a BEST bus occurred on Monday night in Kurla, Mumbai, leading to the unfortunate death of five people and leaving 30 to 35 others seriously injured. The incident took place when a speeding BEST bus on route number 332 lost control and veered into the LBS Road market, hitting several pedestrians and vehicles.
Cause of the Accident and Investigation
Preliminary investigations suggest that the accident may have been caused by brake failure. Following the incident, the bus driver, Sanjay More (54), was arrested, and a case of culpable homicide has been filed against him. According to police, the bus was carrying around 60 passengers at the time of the accident. A forensic team inspected the site, and further investigation is ongoing.
Victims Identified
The deceased have been identified as:
- Vijay Vishnu Gaikwad (70)
- Afreen Abdul Salim Shah (19)
- Anam Sheikh (20)
- Fatima Ghulam Qadri (55)
- Shivam Kashyap (18)
Details of the Incident
The electric bus, en route from Kurla railway station to Andheri, suddenly lost control, hitting pedestrians and vehicles in the bustling market area before crashing into the gates of a residential society. The accident scene witnessed chaos, with large crowds hampering rescue operations.
Response from Authorities
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and BEST officials have initiated a detailed inquiry into the cause of the accident. The injured are being treated at various hospitals, while the BEST bus stop outside Kurla railway station has been temporarily closed as a precaution.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
Congress leader Varsha Gaikwad paid tribute to the deceased and urged the administration to provide immediate assistance to the victims’ families. She also demanded strict action against those responsible.
This incident raises serious concerns about the safety of public transport in Mumbai. Authorities must take urgent measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.