A devastating accident occurred in Mumbai’s Kurla area on Monday evening, resulting in the loss of six lives and injuring 49 others. The tragedy unfolded when a BEST bus, traveling from Kurla Station to Andheri, lost control and rammed into pedestrians, vehicles, and a police car on SG Barve Road.
Eyewitnesses described the horrific scene, stating that the bus accelerated suddenly, striking multiple vehicles and pedestrians before crashing into a residential complex. The impact was severe, with the bus damaging several cars and autorickshaws.
Accident Details
Time of Incident: Monday evening, around 9:30-9:50 PM
Location: SG Barve Road, Ambedkar Nagar, Kurla West Railway Station Road
Bus Route: Kurla Station to Andheri (Route 332)
Casualties: Six dead, 49 injured
Vehicle Damage: Multiple cars, autorickshaws, and a police vehicle affected
Investigation and Response
The Mumbai Police have initiated an investigation into the accident, focusing on possible brake failure and the driver’s actions. The Regional Transport Office is also examining the bus’s maintenance records to determine if any technical issues contributed to the crash.
Dr. Padmashree Ahire, medical superintendent at Kurla Bhabha Hospital, confirmed that 20 injured individuals were admitted, with more expected to arrive. Mangesh Kudalkar, Kurla legislator, assured that measures are underway to provide medical assistance and secure compensation for the families of the deceased.
Public Reaction and Concerns
Locals expressed outrage over the accident, citing concerns about road safety, illegal hawkers, and encroachment by shopkeepers. The incident highlights the need for enhanced safety protocols in public transportation systems and stricter regulations to prevent such tragedies.
“As a Mumbai resident, I’m deeply saddened and outraged by the devastating BEST bus accident that claimed six lives and injured 49 others in Kurla. This tragedy highlights the dire need for improved road safety measures and stricter regulations in our city. The Incident, which occurred on SG Barve Road, was allegedly caused by brake failure, with the bus accelerating suddenly and crashing into pedestrians, vehicles, and a police car. Some of my friend’s describe the scene as chaotic, with multiple vehicles damaged and pedestrians severely injured. The government’s prompt response, including financial aid to victims’ families and medical assistance, is commendable. However, we need sustainable solutions to prevent such tragedies. As a resident, I expect swift action from the government to ensure our city’s safety and well-being.” – Ms. Riya.
Key Concerns
Road Safety : Enhance safety protocols, improve infrastructure, and enforce stricter regulations.
Public Transportation : Regular maintenance, rigorous driver training, and effective emergency response systems.
Encroachment and Hawking : Address illegal hawkers and shopkeepers encroaching on roads.
The community demand’ accountability and effective measures to prevent future accidents. We urge the authorities to:
Conduct thorough investigations into the accident’s cause.
Implement enhanced safety measures for public transportation.
Address road safety concerns, including infrastructure and encroachment issues.
Provide adequate compensation to victims’ families.
Government Response
The government has promised to take necessary actions to improve road safety measures in Kurla. The police have deployed personnel along with State Security Corporation staff as a precautionary measure.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing public safety and infrastructure development. As investigations continue, the community demands accountability and effective measures to prevent such accidents in the future. Stay updated with the latest news.
By Anusmita Bhatta
Reporting for True To Life News Media Pvt. Ltd.