PM Modi Announces Ex-Gratia After Kurnool Bus Inferno Claims 20 Lives
Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh – October 24, 2025: A devastating accident in the early hours of Friday claimed at least 20 lives when a private bus operated by Kaveri Travels caught fire near Chinnatekur village in Kurnool district.
The bus, en route from Hyderabad to Bengaluru, collided with a motorcycle around 3:30 a.m. on National Highway 44. The impact ruptured the fuel tank, triggering a sudden explosion that engulfed the vehicle in flames.
Of the 44 passengers onboard, 21 were rescued, many escaping through shattered windows. Tragically, others were trapped inside as the blaze spread rapidly. Rescue teams, including police and fire services, responded swiftly.
The injured were rushed to Kurnool Government General Hospital, while forensic teams are assisting in identifying the deceased.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, “Extremely saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh.
My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time.” He announced Rs 2 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also conveyed condolences and directed officials to ensure top-tier medical care for survivors. Visuals from the scene showed the bus completely charred, underscoring the intensity of the tragedy.
