A tragic bus accident occurred in the early hours of Friday, December 12, 2025, in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitarama Raju (ASR) district, resulting in multiple casualties. A private travel bus carrying pilgrims overturned and plunged into a gorge on the treacherous Chinturu–Bhadrachalam ghat road.
According to ASR District Collector Dinesh Kumar, at least nine people were killed, and several others sustained injuries. Officials fear the death toll may rise as rescue operations continue.
Accident Details and Cause
- Location: The accident took place on the ghat road near the 9th milestone at Tulasipaka on the route between Chinturu and Maredumilli. This area is reportedly characterized by sharp curves and limited visibility.
- Victims: The bus was carrying a group of 37 people, including two drivers, all hailing from the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. They were returning from a pilgrimage to the Bhadrachalam temple and were reportedly headed to Annavaram.
- Suspected Cause: Initial police reports suggest that the driver failed to negotiate a sharp curve, resulting in the bus hitting a safety wall and then falling into the deep gorge. Some reports also suggest heavy fog or poor visibility during the post-midnight hours (around 4:00 AM) may have been a contributing factor.
- Rescue Delay: Officials noted that the lack of mobile network coverage in the hilly accident site delayed information reaching the nearest police and rescue teams at Mothugunta.
Relief and Government Response
Rescue operations were swiftly launched by the police, revenue officials, and local residents.
- Injured Shifted: The injured passengers were immediately transferred to Chintoor Government Hospital and Bhadrachalam Area Hospital for treatment. Four individuals are reported to be in critical condition.
- CM Expresses Grief: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep shock over the incident. He directed district officials to immediately rush to the spot, ensure all possible help, and guarantee the best medical aid for the injured.
- Ministers on Site: Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha and Tribal Welfare Minister G Sandhya Rani have reportedly rushed to the accident site to oversee the relief and rescue efforts.
The full identities of the deceased are being ascertained as the police investigation continues into the exact circumstances leading to the tragedy.
