BMTC Bus Accident Near ISRO Kills Two in Bengaluru
In a tragic incident on Wednesday night, a Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus ran over a Rapido bike near the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s U R Rao Satellite Centre on Old Airport Road. The accident, which occurred around 10 PM, claimed the lives of both the Rapido captain and the passenger.
Details of the Fatal Crash
The victims were identified as Tapas (33), the Rapido captain from West Bengal, and Aditya Bose (31), the pillion rider. Eyewitnesses reported that the BMTC bus was speeding when it collided with the bike from behind, throwing the riders onto the road.
The bus then ran over them, causing fatal injuries. Passersby rushed the victims to a nearby hospital, but they were declared dead on arrival.
Driver Traced, Conductor Absconding
By Thursday morning, the police had traced the BMTC bus driver, who was taken into custody. However, the bus conductor fled the scene and remains absconding.
The Jeevan Bhima Nagar traffic police have registered a case against the driver for rash driving and causing death by negligence. Efforts are underway to locate the missing conductor.
Victims Identified: Tapas and Aditya Bose
Tapas, the Rapido captain, was a 33-year-old migrant from West Bengal. He had been working in Bengaluru as a bike taxi driver for the past two years.
Aditya Bose, the passenger, was 31 years old and reportedly returning home after work when the accident occurred. His family has demanded strict legal action against the BMTC staff responsible for the tragedy.
Eyewitness Accounts and Police Statements
Eyewitnesses described the accident as horrifying. According to a local vendor, the bus was moving at an excessive speed when it hit the bike.
“The bike was dragged for several meters before the bus finally came to a halt,” said an eyewitness.
Police officials confirmed that CCTV footage from the area is being reviewed to determine the exact sequence of events.
BMTC’s Troubling Safety Record
The incident has once again brought BMTC’s safety standards under scrutiny. The corporation has faced criticism for its drivers’ reckless behavior and frequent traffic violations.
According to Bengaluru Traffic Police data:
- BMTC buses were involved in over 200 accidents in 2024.
- 75 fatalities were linked to BMTC buses last year.
- Complaints about overspeeding, lane indiscipline, and rash driving by BMTC drivers are frequently reported.
Legal Action and Investigation Underway
The police have charged the BMTC driver under Section 304A (causing death by negligence) and Section 279 (rash driving) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Authorities are also investigating whether the bus was overloaded or in violation of traffic rules. Officials have assured the victims’ families that strict action will be taken against those responsible.
Rising Road Accidents in Bengaluru: A Concern
Bengaluru has witnessed a sharp increase in road accidents, particularly involving public transport vehicles.
According to traffic data:
- In 2024, Bengaluru recorded over 4,500 road accidents, resulting in 1,200 fatalities.
- Two-wheelers accounted for 60% of all accidents, making them the most vulnerable.
- Public buses, including BMTC vehicles, were involved in several fatal accidents.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
The accident has sparked public outrage, with residents demanding stricter enforcement of traffic rules for public transport vehicles. Citizens have voiced their concerns on social media, urging the authorities to take action against negligent drivers.
“BMTC buses are notorious for rash driving. This incident highlights the need for stricter monitoring and accountability,” said a local resident.
Government and Civic Responses
Following the incident, several civic groups have called for:
- Regular driver training programs to improve safety standards.
- Installation of speed-monitoring cameras to track reckless driving.
- Strict penalties for traffic violations by public transport vehicles.
Transport authorities have promised a thorough investigation and assured that the victims’ families will receive compensation.
The tragic BMTC bus accident near ISRO in Bengaluru has once again highlighted the city’s road safety challenges. The deaths of Tapas and Aditya Bose have left their families devastated and raised serious questions about BMTC’s safety regulations.
As the police continue their investigation, the public demands accountability and stricter measures to prevent such fatal accidents in the future.
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