Fri Oct 24 14:52:49 UTC 2025: Summary of the Text:

A devastating bus fire near Kurnool, India, claimed the lives of 20 people early Friday morning. The private sleeper bus, traveling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru, caught fire after colliding with a motorbike. Survivors recounted the harrowing experience of waking up to flames and smoke, desperately trying to escape the inferno. Many passengers were trapped and died before they could react. The fire spread rapidly, leaving the bus a charred shell. Several survivors sustained injuries, including fractures, but managed to escape. Among the passengers were IT professionals traveling for work or to visit family.

News Article:

Bengaluru-Bound Bus Fire Claims 20 Lives Near Kurnool

Kurnool, India – October 24, 2025 – A tragic bus fire claimed the lives of 20 people early Friday morning near Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The private sleeper bus, en route from Hyderabad to Bengaluru, reportedly caught fire after colliding with a motorbike around 2:45 AM IST.

Passengers described a chaotic scene of flames and thick smoke rapidly engulfing the vehicle. “I was thinking about my job interview when suddenly there was a loud noise, and within seconds, the bus was filled with smoke,” recounted Jayasurya B., a survivor from Hyderabad. He managed to escape by jumping from the bus, sustaining fractured legs.

Preliminary investigations indicate the bus collided with a motorbike before the fire erupted. The intense blaze quickly spread, leaving the bus a charred shell. Many passengers were trapped and died before they could escape the inferno.

“I woke up to flames and people trying to break the exits. She left everything behind and ran out. She’s safe and resting now,” said Narendra, brother of Punupatti Keerthi, a software engineer who was on the bus.

“When I woke up, I saw flames on the window side. I immediately shouted to the driver, but the fire spread rapidly,” stated Aswin Reddy, another survivor. He added that he and others attempted to break open windows to escape the flames.

Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the accident. The incident has sent shockwaves through the region, particularly among the IT community who frequently travel between Hyderabad and Bengaluru. The identities of the deceased are being verified.

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