Luxury Bus Plunges Off Chennai Bypass Road After Tyre Burst, 20 Sustain Minor Injuries
A private luxury bus traveling from Kerala to Chennai met with a serious accident on Sunday morning, resulting in minor injuries to twenty individuals, including four women and two drivers. The incident occurred on the Irumbuliyur–Maduravoyal bypass road near Thiruneermalai, highlighting the dangers of sudden tyre failures on highways.
Details of the Journey and the Accident
The bus had departed from Kollam, Kerala, on Saturday night, bound for Koyambedu in Chennai. It was carrying a total of thirty-six passengers and two drivers initially. After making stops at Kilambakkam and Perungalathur, the vehicle continued its journey with eighteen passengers and the two drivers aboard.
Around 10 a.m., while navigating the bypass road, a front tyre of the bus suddenly burst. According to police reports, the driver lost control of the vehicle in the aftermath. The bus swerved dangerously across the median, entering the opposite carriageway. It then broke through barricades and went off the road, finally coming to a halt approximately ten feet below the road level, suspended amidst trees.
Immediate Rescue and Response Efforts
Witnesses to the accident, including people traveling in vehicles behind the bus and local residents, quickly rushed to the scene to offer assistance. Their prompt actions were crucial in the initial moments following the crash.
Emergency services were swiftly mobilized. Personnel from the Chromepet traffic investigation wing and the Tambaram fire and rescue services arrived at the spot without delay. They worked efficiently to rescue all passengers through the emergency exit and the front door of the bus.
Following the rescue operation, the injured passengers received necessary aid. They were later shifted to other buses that were heading towards Koyambedu, ensuring their continued journey to Chennai.
Safety Concerns and Aftermath
This accident underscores significant safety concerns related to vehicle maintenance and road conditions. Tyre bursts, particularly on high-speed bypass roads, can lead to catastrophic outcomes, as evidenced by this incident.
Authorities are likely to investigate the exact cause of the tyre failure and assess whether any lapses in maintenance contributed to the accident. Such incidents serve as a stark reminder for both transport operators and passengers about the importance of regular vehicle checks and adherence to safety protocols.
The quick response from bystanders and emergency teams played a vital role in preventing more severe injuries, demonstrating the value of community alertness and efficient public service mechanisms in crisis situations.
