On Monday night, Mumbai was struck by tragedy when a Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) bus lost control and caused a catastrophic accident on SG Barve Marg in Kurla West. The mishap resulted in six fatalities and left 49 others injured, according to officials.
Sequence of Events
The accident unfolded as the BEST bus, travelling towards Andheri, veered out of control, ploughing through pedestrians and colliding with multiple vehicles. Throughout approximately 100 meters, the bus damaged between 30 to 40 cars before crashing into the RCC column of the Solomon Building, breaking its compound wall, as confirmed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
Driver Detained, Initial Findings Shared
The bus driver, identified as Sanjay More, has been detained for questioning. BEST officials stated that preliminary findings suggest the driver lost control of the bus, causing its speed to accelerate uncontrollably.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Three people were declared dead on arrival at Bhabha Hospital late Monday night. By Tuesday morning, the death toll had risen to six. The injured victims were immediately rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention. Authorities continue to monitor the condition of those injured.
Details of the Accident
The ill-fated bus, operating on route A322 from Kurla Station to Sakinaka, struck pedestrians and vehicles before crashing into Buddha Colony, a residential area. The bus came to a halt within the compound of the residential society.
The vehicle involved in the accident was a 12-meter-long electric bus, manufactured by Hyderabad-based Olectra Greentech. The BEST had been operating the bus under a wet lease arrangement.
Impact on Transportation
The Mumbai Police have closed SG Barve Marg to traffic, leading to significant disruptions in the area. The BEST has rerouted buses on 10 alternate routes to minimize inconvenience to commuters. SG Barve Marg is a critical link connecting Kurla Station to other major hubs like Bandra-Kurla Complex, making the accident’s impact even more pronounced.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation to uncover the exact cause of the accident. While initial reports suggest a mechanical or operational failure, officials are conducting a thorough review of the bus's condition and the events leading up to the crash.
A Grim Reminder
This tragedy is a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous safety measures in public transportation. With lives lost and many others affected, Mumbai mourns the victims and hopes for the swift recovery of those injured.
Authorities are urging drivers and transport bodies to prioritize safety to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.
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