In a devastating incident that unfolded in Guna, Madhya Pradesh, a privately-owned bus, owned by Bhanu Pratap Sikarwar, the brother of former BJP district vice president Vishwanath Sikarwar, collided with a truck, resulting in thirteen fatalities and leaving eighteen individuals injured. The incident has sent shockwaves through the region, prompting immediate action and investigation by the state authorities.
The bus, which had expired fitness and insurance certificates, as well as unpaid road tax since 2021, was traveling from Guna to Aron with approximately 30 passengers, a driver, and a conductor. The collision occurred at around 8:30 pm, causing the bus to overturn and erupt into flames, creating a harrowing scene.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, expressing his sorrow, swiftly ordered a probe into the incident and vowed “strict action” against those found responsible. The Chief Minister, in constant contact with the District Collector and Superintendent of Police, made his way to Guna to assess the situation firsthand.
The gravity of the situation prompted immediate measures, including the suspension of a Transport Department official and the Chief Medical Officer of Guna district for alleged negligence. Yadav, acknowledging the pain of the affected families, announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to each of the injured.
About Deadly Bus Accident:
The incident has raised concerns about safety standards and regulatory oversight in the transport sector. The revelation that the ill-fated bus lacked proper documentation and had not paid road tax for over a year underscores the need for stricter enforcement and regular audits to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of lapses in safety measures. As investigations unfold, authorities must focus on understanding the circumstances leading to the collision, scrutinizing the permit status of the bus, and identifying systemic issues that may have contributed to this unfortunate incident.
In the aftermath of this heart-wrenching event, there is a collective call for comprehensive reforms to prevent the recurrence of such accidents. Stricter adherence to safety protocols, regular inspections, and transparent accountability mechanisms are imperative to safeguard the lives of passengers and prevent future tragedies on our roads.
As Madhya Pradesh grapples with the aftermath of this bus accident, there is a shared hope that the investigation will yield valuable insights, leading to meaningful changes in the state’s transportation policies and practices, ultimately ensuring the safety of all travelers.