Madurai Bus Crash Claims Three Lives, Leaves Fifteen Injured in Early Morning Tragedy
A devastating road accident occurred near Kottampatti in Madurai early on Sunday morning, resulting in the tragic deaths of three individuals and injuries to fifteen others. The incident involved two private buses and has sent shockwaves through the local community.
Details of the Fatal Collision on Trichy-Madurai Highway
According to police reports, a private bus carrying 46 passengers was traveling from Chennai to Madurai on the Trichy-Madurai highway. As the bus approached the Pallapatti bus stop around 4:15 AM, the driver, identified as 41-year-old Gurumurthy, lost control of the vehicle. The bus subsequently rear-ended another Madurai-bound private bus that was parked along the highway.
The impact of the collision was severe and immediate. Three passengers lost their lives on the spot. The deceased have been identified as Kanaga Ranjitham, a 65-year-old resident of Kovilpatti, Sudarshan, a 19-year-old from Kottaimedu, and Mary Suja, a 50-year-old from Vellicode. Fifteen other passengers sustained various injuries in the crash.
Emergency Response and Medical Treatment for Victims
Upon receiving information about the accident, police personnel swiftly arrived at the scene. They immediately initiated rescue operations, extricating the injured passengers from the wreckage. All injured individuals were initially transported to Melur Government Hospital for emergency medical attention.
Due to the severity of their injuries, the patients were later referred to the Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai for advanced treatment and specialized care. The bodies of the deceased were also sent to Melur Government Hospital for post-mortem examinations and further formalities.
Investigation Reveals Driver Fatigue as Primary Cause
Kottampatti police investigating the incident revealed crucial details about the circumstances leading to the crash. The bus that was struck from behind had been parked along the highway to facilitate a driver change, a common practice on long-distance routes.
Police stated that the driver of the moving bus, Gurumurthy, lost control because he had fallen asleep at the wheel. This critical lapse in alertness resulted in the catastrophic collision. Authorities have registered a case in connection with the accident and have arrested driver Gurumurthy for his role in the tragedy.
Further investigation into the incident is currently underway to examine all aspects of the crash, including potential contributing factors and safety protocol compliance. The accident highlights the ongoing concerns about driver fatigue and road safety on India's highways, particularly during early morning hours when alertness may be compromised.
