A major road accident occurred in Khammam district on Friday when a school bus overturned and fell into a canal at Ganeshpadu village in Penuballi mandal. The incident injured at least 20 schoolchildren and triggered panic among parents and locals. Fortunately, a bigger tragedy was avoided as the canal had no water at the time of the accident.
According to preliminary reports, the school bus was carrying 107 students when the driver lost control of the vehicle. The bus veered off the road and toppled into the roadside canal. Locals rushed to the spot immediately after hearing the screams of the children. They broke open windows and helped students climb out of the bus.
Speeding Suspected as Cause
Eyewitnesses said the driver was driving at high speed before the accident. As a result, he failed to control the bus while negotiating a turn near Ganeshpadu. However, police officials said they will confirm the exact cause after a detailed investigation. Meanwhile, authorities detained the driver for questioning.
Police teams reached the accident site within minutes of receiving information. They coordinated rescue operations with villagers and emergency staff. Ambulances shifted the injured students to a private hospital in Thiruvur, NTR district, for treatment. Doctors confirmed that most injuries were minor, and the children are now out of danger.
Narrow Escape Prevents Major Tragedy
Officials stated that the absence of water in the canal played a crucial role in preventing loss of life. Otherwise, the situation could have turned fatal. Parents gathered at the hospital soon after the news spread, creating tense scenes.
The police registered a case and launched an investigation into safety violations. They are also checking whether the bus had proper permits and fitness certification. Education department officials said they will review school transport safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
The accident has once again raised serious concerns about student safety and reckless driving. Locals demanded strict action against negligent drivers and better monitoring of school buses to ensure children travel safely every day.
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