CHITRADURGA: In a tragic incident in Karnataka’s Chitradurga district, more than 12 people lost their lives after a private sleeper bus collided head-on with a truck, causing both vehicles to catch fire. The horrific accident took place on the intervening night of Wednesday and Thursday in the Goralattu area of Hiriyur taluk.

Police officials stated that the crash occurred around midnight. The private bus was travelling from Bengaluru to Gokarna when it slammed into an oncoming truck. The impact was severe, and flames engulfed both vehicles within minutes, leaving many passengers with no time to escape.

Passengers Trapped in Flames

Approximately 32 people, including the driver and conductor, were on board the bus at the time of the mishap. Authorities confirmed that the truck driver died on the spot. Over 12 passengers trapped inside the bus were burnt alive. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of the death toll rising as rescue operations and identification processes continue.

Upon receiving information about the crash, a police team led by DSP Shivakumar rushed to the scene. Fire tenders were deployed immediately, and with the help of local residents, the blaze was eventually brought under control. Injured survivors were transported to the Chitradurga District Hospital. Those in critical condition have been referred to Bengaluru for advanced medical treatment.

Survivor’s Account

Bus conductor Mohammed Salim, who survived the crash, shared a harrowing account of the moments following the collision.

“I was sleeping when the accident happened. The window glass shattered upon impact, and I fell out of the bus. Locals helped me reach the hospital.” — Mohammed Salim, Bus Conductor

Salim sustained injuries to his hands and legs but is reportedly stable.

Investigation and Relief Measures

Police have registered a case and initiated a probe into the cause of the accident. Preliminary investigations suggest speeding and negligence could be factors, though a final conclusion will only be drawn after a detailed inquiry.

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) issued a statement expressing deep grief over the loss of lives. The Prime Minister has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of the deceased. An assistance of Rs 50,000 has been announced for those injured in the tragedy.

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.

An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each…

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 25, 2025

This incident has once again raised serious concerns regarding safety measures on long-distance sleeper buses and traffic management on highways during night hours.