Fri Oct 24 15:48:42 UTC 2025: Headline: Passengers Criticize Driver Response in Deadly Kurnool Bus Fire; Several Survive
KURNOOL, India – October 24, 2025 (The Hindu) – Survivors of a horrific bus fire near Chinna Tekuru in the Kurnool district are alleging that the bus drivers failed to adequately respond to the emergency, potentially costing lives. The incident occurred on Thursday evening, October 23, 2025, after the bus, en route to Bengaluru, experienced a sudden “blast-like sound” followed by thick smoke, according to passengers.
Passengers like Aswin, who was seated near the driver, reported that the drivers were seen attempting to extinguish the fire with a small water bottle, a futile effort. Aswin also claimed the drivers failed to alert passengers or attempt to open the main doors, forcing passengers to break windows to escape.
“I could not see the bus drivers after the fire engulfed the bus. They should have alerted us, but they were nowhere near the bus,” stated Akash, a 31-year-old passenger who was traveling on berth U3.
Surya, another survivor, confirmed the rapid spread of smoke, making breathing and visibility difficult. He credited individuals in a car behind the bus for breaking open the rear windows, saving several lives.
MG Rama Reddy, a 50-year-old passenger, reported being pulled out of a rear window and suffering minor injuries. He also described the chaotic scene, with the aisle filled with smoke and passengers struggling to escape.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Authorities have not yet released an official statement regarding the drivers’ actions. The incident has sparked outrage among survivors, who believe a more decisive response from the drivers could have minimized the loss of life.
First Piper 