Bhopal, Feb 22 (IANS) At least 15 passengers were injured after a private bus travelling from Pipariya in Narmadapuram district to Chhindwara overturned near Renikheda village in Chhindwara district on Sunday, the police said.
The accident occurred at around 10 a.m. when the bus, bearing registration number MP-04-PA-2644, lost control and overturned on the roadside.
Police suspect overspeeding or a possible mechanical fault as the cause of the accident, although preliminary investigation indicates that the vehicle was moving at high speed, causing the driver to lose control.
Fortunately, the bus was carrying relatively few passengers at the time, preventing a potentially more serious tragedy.
Police said preliminary findings also suggest that the steering mechanism may have locked suddenly, contributing to the accident.
Upon receiving information, personnel from Mahuljhir police station rushed to the spot and, with the assistance of local residents, rescued the injured passengers and shifted them to Tamia Hospital for immediate medical treatment.
According to police officials, 10 to 11 passengers who sustained serious injuries were later referred to the Community Health Centre in Pipariya for further treatment, while those with minor injuries were provided first aid and discharged.
“Three persons are reported to be in critical condition,” a police official said.
The bus driver, identified as Amar, sustained a severe head injury and was referred to the district hospital for specialised treatment. His condition is reported to be critical.
Police later arranged for a crane to remove the overturned vehicle from the road, restoring normal traffic movement on the route.
A case has been registered at Mahuljhir police station, and an investigation has been launched to ascertain the exact cause of the accident. Police are examining factors such as vehicle speed, mechanical condition, and road circumstances, and are also recording statements from witnesses to determine the sequence of events.
Pipariya serves as an important transit point for tourists travelling to hill stations such as Pachmarhi and Tamia in the region.
–IANS
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