Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media on Thursday, December 25, 2025, to extend his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who perished in the horrific collision on National Highway 48. A private sleeper coach traveling from Bengaluru to Gokarna/Shivamogga was engulfed in flames after a truck jumped the divider and struck it head-on near Gorlathu village.
Official Statement from PMO In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), the PMO stated:
"Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in the Chitradurga district of Karnataka. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May those injured recover at the earliest."
Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in the Chitradurga district of Karnataka. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May those injured recover at the earliest.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 25, 2025
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each…
Financial Assistance Announced The Prime Minister has sanctioned immediate relief from the PMNRF:
- Next of Kin of Deceased: ₹2 lakh each.
- Injured Victims: ₹50,000 each.
The Incident at a Glance The accident, which occurred around 3:00 AM while most passengers were asleep, has claimed at least 11 lives, with some reports suggesting the toll could be higher. Preliminary investigations suggest the truck driver may have dozed off, causing the vehicle to cross the median and strike the bus fuel tank, sparking an immediate and uncontrollable fire.
