Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in a tragic bus accident in Andhra Pradesh and announced ex gratia assistance for the affected families.
In a message shared on the social media platform X, the Prime Minister conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery for those injured. He also announced financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the next of kin of each deceased, and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
The mishap in Markapuram district, Andhra Pradesh, is tragic. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs.…
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 26, 2026
At least 14 people lost their lives, and 15 others sustained injuries when a private travel bus caught fire after colliding with a tipper truck in Markapuram earlier in the day.
The accident occurred near Rayavaram at around 6:30 AM when the bus, carrying 35 passengers, collided with a tipper truck near a stone quarry, triggering a massive fire that engulfed both vehicles.
Officials confirmed that 15 injured passengers were rushed to a government hospital in Markapuram, with some reported to be in critical condition, raising concerns that the death toll may increase.
Among the victims were women and children, while a few passengers managed to escape soon after the blaze erupted.
The bus was travelling from Hyderabad to Pamuru, and most victims were residents of Kanigiri and Pamuru.
Police and fire personnel swiftly reached the site and launched rescue operations, deploying multiple fire engines to contain the flames.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed shock over the incident, directed officials to ensure proper medical care for the injured, and ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident.
Also Read: PM Modi To Inaugurate Noida International Airport Phase I On 28 March
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps
