13 dead, 28 injured after private bus collides with lorry, bursts into flames in Andhra Pradesh

VIJAYAWADA: Thirteen people died after a private travel bus collided head-on with a lorry, triggering a fire that engulfed both vehicles, officials said.The crash took place in the early hours of Thursday in Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh.According to preliminary reports, the impact of the collision caused a massive fire within minutes. Fourteen passengers were reportedly burnt alive, while around 28 others sustained serious injuries. Several of the injured are said to be in critical condition. Police and fire department personnel reached the scene soon after receiving information and launched rescue operations.Firefighters battled the flames and brought the situation under control after a prolonged effort. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, including Markapur Hospital, for treatment.Speaking with officials, chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep shock, reviewed the medical care being extended to the injured. District police briefed him that around 20 victims have been shifted to different hospitals for treatment. CM Naidu also expressed apprehension that the death toll may rise further. He instructed authorities to carry out a thorough investigation into the accident and submit a detailed report on its causes. Officials said the bus was travelling from Jagtial in neighbouring Telangana to Podili in Prakasam district when the accident occurred.A detailed investigation is underway, and efforts are continuing to identify victims and assist survivors.