Driver Detained After Delhi Bus Crash That Killed 2, Injured 23

A serious road mishap occurred in Delhi’s Karol Bagh in the early hours of Wednesday, killing two individuals and injuring 23 others after a tourist sleeper bus overturned near Jhandewalan.

The bus was en route from Jaipur to Sadar Bazar with nearly 30 passengers on board.

Police have detained the driver, identified as 26-year-old Pankaj Kumar from Alwar in Rajasthan. He is currently receiving medical care at Lady Hardinge Medical College.

Authorities have indicated that legal proceedings will follow once the investigation is completed.

Passengers who survived the crash alleged that the driver was under the influence of alcohol and driving at a dangerously high speed.

According to a passenger, “When he suddenly took a sharp turn, the vehicle overturned. We heard the conductor say that the brakes have failed. The driver consumed alcohol after entering Delhi. As soon as the bus entered Delhi, he started drinking. At a roundabout, he made a sharp turn, and the bus immediately overturned.”

“When the bus overturned, everyone was focused on saving the children first. When people started arriving, they helped get the children out safely. They sustained minor injuries. Several people were critical as they were trapped under the bus,” the passenger added.

Another passenger noted, “The driver was drunk, and the speed was over 100 km/hr.”

Emergency Response and Rescue Operation

Police received an emergency call at approximately 1:05 AM and immediately reached the accident site. Several passengers were found trapped inside the overturned vehicle.

“Displaying promptness and presence of mind, Ct Rohit stopped a passing JCB. The police team, along with public persons, carefully lifted the bus slightly and secured it using heavy roadside cement blocks. A rescue operation was immediately launched,” the police mentioned.

The injured were transported to multiple medical facilities for urgent care.

Twelve victims were admitted to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, where two later died from their injuries. Ten others were taken to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, while one person was admitted to Lady Hardinge Medical College.

One of the deceased has been identified as 30-year-old Shehbaj Alam from Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh, while the second victim’s identity is yet to be confirmed.

The case is being investigated by Sub-Inspector Trilok, who is collecting statements and medical reports. Officials have also stated that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.

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