Hiriyur, Karnataka – Survivors of a bus crash that resulted in a fire near Hiriyur on Wednesday recounted their harrowing experiences as they awaited medical assistance. The incident, which occurred on the National Highway 48, involved a collision between a private passenger bus and a lorry, leading to a fire that engulfed the bus shortly after the crash.
The accident took place around 7:30 AM, when the bus, carrying approximately 40 passengers, collided with the lorry, which was reportedly transporting goods. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as flames quickly spread through the bus, forcing passengers to escape through windows and emergency exits. Many survivors suffered burns and smoke inhalation, while others sustained injuries from the impact of the collision.
Local residents rushed to the scene to assist the victims, providing water and first aid as they awaited the arrival of emergency services. However, despite the prompt response from firefighters, who arrived within minutes of the crash, ambulances were delayed due to heavy traffic on the highway. This delay left many injured passengers waiting for extended periods before receiving medical attention.
“I thought I was going to die,” said one survivor, who identified herself as Priya. “We were trapped inside, and the smoke was everywhere. When we finally got out, we were just standing there, cold and scared, waiting for help.” Another passenger, Ravi, described the scene as “chaotic,” noting that while firefighters worked to extinguish the flames, the lack of ambulances meant that many were left in pain and confusion.
The Karnataka State Fire and Emergency Services reported that they received the emergency call shortly after the accident occurred. Firefighters quickly extinguished the flames, preventing the fire from spreading to nearby vehicles and structures. However, the delay in ambulance response has raised concerns among local officials and residents about the adequacy of emergency services in the region.
Authorities have confirmed that a total of 15 passengers were injured in the crash, with four individuals sustaining serious injuries. All injured passengers were eventually transported to nearby hospitals, including the Chigateri General Hospital in Davangere and the Bapuji Hospital in Shivamogga. Medical staff at these facilities have reported that the injuries range from minor burns to more severe trauma requiring surgical intervention.
The incident has sparked discussions about road safety and emergency response protocols in Karnataka. The National Highway 48, a major route connecting several cities, has been the site of numerous accidents in recent years, prompting calls for improved safety measures. Local officials have emphasized the need for better traffic management and increased availability of ambulances, particularly in rural areas where access to medical care can be limited.
In response to the crash, the Karnataka government has announced plans to review emergency response times and assess the adequacy of resources allocated to ambulance services. “We take these incidents very seriously,” said a spokesperson for the Karnataka Health Department. “We will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this accident and ensure that our emergency services are equipped to respond effectively in the future.”
The implications of this incident extend beyond the immediate concerns of the survivors and their families. It highlights ongoing issues related to road safety, emergency preparedness, and the need for infrastructure improvements in Karnataka. As the state grapples with increasing traffic volumes and the associated risks, the government faces pressure to implement measures that can prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The survivors of the Hiriyur bus crash are now left to navigate the aftermath of their ordeal, with many expressing gratitude for the assistance they received from local residents. However, the experience has left a lasting impact on their lives, as they cope with physical injuries and emotional trauma. As investigations continue and discussions about road safety intensify, the hope is that lessons learned from this incident will lead to meaningful changes that enhance the safety of all travelers on Karnataka’s roads.
