HAVERI: A government bus rammed into commuters waiting on a platform at the Haveri Central Bus Stand on Tuesday, killing a two-year-old boy and injuring several others. The incident has raised serious concerns over passenger safety at the facility.
Eyewitnesses said immediately after entering the premises, the bus veered off course and sped towards a crowded platform. Panic-stricken commuters scrambled to escape, but the vehicle rammed into the crowd. The boy died on the spot. Several injured persons, including women and elderly passengers, were rushed to the district hospital, where some are said to be in a critical condition.
Police said the driver might have lost control of the vehicle, even as the exact cause of the accident is under investigation. The driver allegedly fled the scene immediately after the incident, triggering outrage among the public.
Police teams arrived at the spot shortly after the mishap and have launched a manhunt for the absconding driver. A case has been registered at the Town Traffic Police Station, and the sleuths are examining the CCTV footage from the bus stand.
District officials and transport authorities have visited the site and assured strict action against those responsible. They also announced compensation for the victim’s family and medical assistance for the injured.
The incident has sparked anger among commuters, who have demanded improved safety measures on the premises and stricter monitoring of drivers to prevent such incidents in the future.