BMTC Bus Accident Near ISRO Claims Two Lives in Bengaluru
In a tragic incident on Wednesday night, a Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus ran over a Rapido bike, killing both the captain and the passenger on Old Airport Road. The accident occurred around 10 PM near the ISRO U R Rao Satellite Centre.
According to reports, the bike driver, identified as Tapas (33), a native of West Bengal, and his passenger, Aditya Bose (31), were killed on the spot. The Jeevan Bhima Nagar traffic police confirmed the incident and stated that while the BMTC driver was traced by Thursday morning, the bus conductor remains absconding.
Details of the Incident
Eyewitnesses reported that the BMTC bus, traveling at high speed, hit the Rapido bike from behind, dragging the two men several meters before coming to a halt. Despite the efforts of passersby to rush them to a nearby hospital, both victims were declared dead on arrival.
“The bus was moving recklessly. The bike riders had no chance to escape. It was a horrifying sight,” said Rajesh Kumar, an eyewitness.
Local authorities were quick to respond, and the Jeevan Bhima Nagar traffic police registered a case. While the driver of the bus was located by Thursday morning, efforts are ongoing to trace the absconding conductor.
Victims Identified: Tapas and Aditya Bose
The deceased Rapido captain, Tapas, aged 33, was a migrant from West Bengal, working as a bike taxi rider to support his family. The passenger, Aditya Bose (31), was reportedly traveling to his residence in Bengaluru after work when the accident occurred.
The families of the victims have been notified, and arrangements are being made to transport Tapas’s body back to West Bengal.
BMTC’s Safety Record Under Scrutiny
The accident has once again raised concerns over BMTC’s safety record. With frequent complaints regarding reckless driving and poor road discipline, this incident has sparked outrage among commuters and residents.
According to data from Bengaluru Traffic Police, over 3,500 accidents were reported in the city in 2024, with several involving BMTC buses.
Local residents and commuters are demanding stricter regulations for public transport drivers, citing the lack of adherence to traffic rules.
Police Investigation and Legal Action
The Jeevan Bhima Nagar traffic police have initiated an investigation into the accident. They are examining CCTV footage from the area to determine the sequence of events. Preliminary reports suggest that the BMTC bus was overspeeding and may have been involved in lane violations.
The bus driver will face charges of negligent driving and causing death by negligence under Sections 304A and 279 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The police have launched a manhunt to locate the absconding conductor.
Rising Road Accidents in Bengaluru: A Growing Concern
The incident has once again highlighted the increasing number of road accidents in Bengaluru, particularly involving BMTC buses and two-wheelers.
According to traffic department data:
Bengaluru reported 4,500+ road accidents in 2024, with over 1,200 fatalities.
BMTC buses were involved in over 200 accidents, making them one of the significant contributors to road fatalities.
Experts attribute the rise in accidents to rash driving, poor road infrastructure, and traffic violations.
Public Reaction and Demand for Stricter Rules
The incident has sparked public outrage on social media, with citizens demanding stricter traffic regulations for public transport drivers. Several commuters and residents have shared their grievances regarding BMTC drivers’ rash driving and called for better enforcement of safety rules.
“BMTC buses often drive recklessly, endangering lives. The authorities must ensure that drivers follow safety protocols and receive better training,” said Nisha Rao, a local commuter.
The tragic accident involving the BMTC bus and the Rapido bike has left the city shaken. The loss of two lives highlights the urgent need for stricter road safety measures and better regulation of public transport vehicles.
As the police investigation continues, citizens are hoping for strict action against the guilty and the implementation of road safety reforms to prevent further incidents.
Saathee Global
