10 killed, 30 injured as MSRTC bus overturns in Maharashtra’s Gondia

A bus accident in Maharashtra’s Gondia district on Friday resulted in the deaths of at least 10 people and left around 30 others injured. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus, which was traveling from Bhandara to Gondia, overturned near Bindravana Tola village on the Gondia-Arjuni road. Emergency services, including ambulances, police vans, and cranes, were immediately dispatched to the scene to aid in the rescue efforts and transport the injured to nearby hospitals.

The accident occurred when the bus driver swerved to avoid a motorcycle that appeared suddenly in front of the vehicle. This abrupt maneuver led to the bus losing control and overturning. Initial reports confirmed that eight people died at the scene, with the death toll expected to increase. Around 30 passengers sustained injuries, with several reported to be in critical condition. The injured were taken to the Gondia District Hospital for treatment, and authorities are coordinating with local hospitals for further medical care.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the Transport Department to provide immediate relief to the victims' families, including financial assistance of ₹10 lakh to the next of kin of those killed. The state government has also ensured that the injured passengers are receiving proper medical treatment. Senior officials from the district administration have reached the site to oversee the relief operations, and efforts are being made to provide further medical support, including transferring some patients to hospitals in Nagpur if required.

The driver of the MSRTC bus reportedly fled the scene following the crash, and local police have launched an investigation into the incident. The bus was carrying over 35 passengers at the time of the accident. Authorities are working to determine the full details of the accident and assess whether any factors, such as road conditions or mechanical issues, contributed to the crash. The incident has prompted calls for stricter safety measures and improved road conditions in the region.