19 Killed as Hyderabad–Bengaluru Bus Catches Fire in Kurnool; Ex-Gratia Announced

Kurnool, October 24, 2025: At least 19 passengers were killed and several others injured after a luxury private sleeper bus travelling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru caught fire near Chinnatekuru village in Kurnool district early Friday morning.

According to officials, the bus, carrying 43 passengers, burst into flames around 3:30 a.m. after colliding with a motorbike coming from the opposite direction. The Andhra Pradesh Disaster Response and Fire Services Department stated that overspeeding and negligence likely caused the tragedy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh each from the PM National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of the deceased. The Telangana government also declared ₹5 lakh compensation per victim.

Forensic teams are conducting on-site investigations, and helpline numbers have been issued for assistance.