Mumbai, December 10, 2024: A devastating accident in Kurla West, Mumbai, involving a BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport) bus has claimed seven lives and injured 42 others. The mishap occurred late Monday night, leaving residents and authorities grappling with the aftermath of one of the city’s worst road accidents in recent memory.
The bus, traveling toward Andheri, lost control on SG Barve Marg, causing chaos over a 100-meter stretch. It struck multiple pedestrians and rammed into 30-40 vehicles before colliding with the RCC column of the Solomon Building, damaging its compound wall. Eyewitnesses described the scene as “apocalyptic,” with mangled vehicles, debris, and injured individuals sprawled across the road.
Sequence of Events
Initial reports suggest that the bus’s speed surged uncontrollably after the driver, Sanjay More, reportedly lost command of the vehicle. The bus’s erratic trajectory caused widespread panic as it plowed through the bustling street. Witnesses recounted hearing loud crashes and desperate screams as the vehicle tore through the area.
BEST officials released a statement early Tuesday, emphasizing that the exact cause is still under investigation. “The driver appears to have lost control, resulting in the vehicle accelerating uncontrollably. We are cooperating fully with the authorities to determine the precise reasons,” the statement read.
Casualties and Injuries
Three individuals were declared dead at Bhabha Hospital shortly after the accident. By Tuesday morning, the death toll had risen to seven, while 42 others remained hospitalized with varying degrees of injuries. Among the injured, at least ten are reported to be in critical condition, with several requiring intensive care.
Family members of the victims gathered outside hospitals, anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. “My brother was just walking home from work. We had no idea a routine evening could end in such a tragedy,” said one distraught relative.
Driver Detained and Investigation Underway
The driver, Sanjay More, has been detained for questioning. Law enforcement authorities are working to determine whether mechanical failure, driver error, or external factors contributed to the disaster. Preliminary checks on the bus’s maintenance records and CCTV footage from the area are underway.
Additional police personnel have been deployed to manage traffic and assist with clean-up operations. A forensic team is also analyzing the crash site for further evidence.
Public Outrage and Demands for Accountability
The incident has sparked outrage among citizens, with many questioning the safety protocols of public transport systems. “How can a bus on a busy road lose control like this? Were there no proper checks?” asked a local resident.
Advocacy groups have called for stricter enforcement of vehicle maintenance regulations and better training for public transport drivers. “This tragedy highlights systemic issues that cannot be ignored. Authorities must take immediate steps to ensure passenger and pedestrian safety,” said one activist.
Relief Measures and Support
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has assured all necessary medical support for the injured and financial assistance for the victims’ families. Maharashtra Chief Minister expressed condolences to the bereaved families and directed officials to expedite the investigation.
In the wake of the tragedy, citizens are urging authorities to take swift and meaningful action to prevent such incidents. The Kurla bus accident stands as a grim reminder of the perils of road negligence and the urgent need for reform in public transportation systems.