Four people died and nine others were injured in a bus accident in Bhandup West, Mumbai. The incident occurred on Station Road at 10 PM. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a compensation of five lakh rupees for the families of the deceased.
Maharashtra Bus Accident: A heartbreaking bus accident occurred in Bhandup West, Mumbai, on Monday night, resulting in the deaths of four people and injuries to several others. The accident took place around 10 PM on Station Road. The terrifying scene was captured on CCTV footage from a nearby textile shop. The footage shows some passengers standing on the roadside when a bus suddenly reversed, and people began to run to save their lives.
Chilling Scenes Captured on CCTV
The CCTV footage shows people running in different directions, but some are run over by the bus wheels. The footage also shows a person being directly crushed under the bus. The incident was harrowing for those present in the area. According to local police, the accident occurred when the driver was reversing the bus at the end of its route.
Information on the Deceased and Injured
Police officials stated that a total of four people, including three women, died in the accident. Nine others were injured and have been admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Sucheta Utale, the Public Relations Officer of Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), stated that the bus driver, Santosh Ramesh Sawant, aged 52, and conductor, Bhagwan Bhau Ghare, aged 47, were on duty.
Bus and Operational Details
The bus involved in the accident was leased from Olectra Greentech on a wet-lease basis. Officials explained that BEST’s wet-lease model operates such that the contractor or operator is responsible for the operation, driver, fuel, and maintenance of the bus. Under this model, the contractor bears the cost of running and maintaining the bus.
Police stated that the bus driver has been taken into custody following the accident. A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against him. Police are investigating the accident and attempting to clarify any potential negligence.
Chief Minister Announces Compensation
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced financial assistance of five lakh rupees for the families of those who died in the accident. He described the incident as extremely unfortunate and paid heartfelt tributes to the deceased in a post on X. Fadnavis stated that nine people were injured and prayed for their speedy recovery.
Officials believe the accident occurred when the driver was reversing the bus at the end of its route. Congestion and passengers standing on the roadside were the main causes of the accident. This highlights the critical need for extra vigilance and adherence to proper guidelines in crowded areas.
Traffic Situation in the Bhandup Area
Earlier this year, mini buses operating on crowded routes around Bhandup station and near Sanjay Gandhi National Park were removed from the BEST fleet. The aim was to reduce heavy congestion and the possibility of accidents. Despite this, the accident occurred, raising questions about safety and traffic control in the area.
Police and BEST officials have appealed to people to walk carefully in crowded areas and avoid standing on the roadside. People may face dangerous situations when vehicles reverse or start suddenly.
Chief Minister Fadnavis clarified that the state government will provide financial assistance of five lakh rupees to the legal heirs of the deceased. The aim is to provide immediate relief to the affected families and offer financial support during this difficult time.
