Kozhikode Bus Driver's Swift Action Prevents Tragedy as Child Runs Into Road
In a heart-stopping incident at Kodiyathoor in Kozhikode, a three-year-old girl had a miraculous escape from being run over by a private bus, with the dramatic CCTV footage quickly going viral across social media platforms. The video, which has sparked widespread concern and admiration, captures a narrow miss that underscores the critical importance of road safety and vigilance.
Dramatic Footage Shows Child's Dash Into Bus Path
The incident occurred on Friday when the young girl, who had just alighted from an autorickshaw accompanied by an adult, suddenly darted across the road toward her mother waiting on the opposite side. As she ran directly into the path of an oncoming private bus, the situation appeared dire, with seconds to spare before potential disaster.
Driver Sinoj's quick reflexes proved lifesaving as he swerved the vehicle sharply to the right and slammed on the brakes, narrowly avoiding the child. The bus, named Thayyil and operating on the Kozhikode–Kodiyathoor route, came to a halt just in time, with the girl escaping completely unharmed.
Driver Recalls Terrifying Moments and Emotional Aftermath
Sinoj, the heroic driver, described the harrowing experience, revealing that for a split second, he feared the worst. "I thought the child had gone under the bus. I braked hard and swerved to the right. People nearby also shouted when they saw the girl running across the road, which made her stop," he recounted.
The emotional toll was immediate and profound. Sinoj admitted that his hands and legs were trembling after the incident, particularly as he himself is a parent to two children of similar age. He stayed away from driving for two days following the scare, with the bus resuming service later under another driver's control.
CCTV Footage Goes Viral to Promote Safety Awareness
The CCTV footage was retrieved on Saturday from a nearby shop and has since been widely shared on social media, serving as a stark reminder for parents and guardians to exercise extreme caution near roads. Authorities and netizens alike are using the video to urge heightened vigilance, especially in busy areas like Kodiyathoor.
The child, who is the daughter of a couple from outside Kerala, was fortunate to escape without any injuries. In recognition of his alertness and bravery, Sinoj was honored by CITU workers at Kodiyathoor, receiving praise for his presence of mind that averted what could have been a tragic accident.
This incident highlights several key points for public safety:
- Always hold children's hands near roads and teach them road safety rules.
- Drivers must remain alert and prepared for unexpected movements, especially in residential or crowded areas.
- Community awareness through shared videos can reinforce the importance of vigilance.
As the video continues to circulate online, it serves as both a warning and an inspiration, reminding everyone of the thin line between safety and danger on our roads.
