Bus Accident on Mumbai-Pune Expressway: 11 Injured After Vehicle Falls Into Trench

In a tragic incident on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, a private bus carrying passengers from Sangola in Solapur district to Mumbai met with an accident early Thursday morning. A tempo rear-ended the bus, causing it to lose control and plunge into a 20-foot trench near Khopoli in Maharashtra’s Raigad district. The accident left 11 people injured, including passengers from both vehicles.

How the Accident Happened

The accident occurred around 3 AM when a tempo reportedly crashed into the bus from behind. According to a preliminary investigation by Khopoli police, the impact caused the bus to veer off its lane, ram into the roadside railing, and tumble into a trench. The vehicle then overturned, leaving its passengers trapped and injured.

Authorities suspect that the tempo’s brakes may have failed, contributing to the unfortunate chain of events.

Rescue Efforts: Quick Response Saves Lives

As soon as information about the accident reached the local authorities, a team from the Khopoli police station and rescue volunteers promptly arrived at the scene. They worked together to rescue the injured passengers from the bus and tempo and transported them to a nearby hospital for treatment.

A rescue team member shared that the injured included not only the bus passengers but also three individuals traveling in the tempo. The swift response by the police and rescue teams helped prevent further casualties.

The Bus’s Journey: A Routine Trip Turns Chaotic

The private bus was en route to Mumbai from Sangola in Solapur district, a common route for passengers traveling for work, family visits, or personal reasons. The journey, however, took a dramatic turn due to the collision, highlighting the importance of vehicle maintenance and road safety measures.

Road Safety Concerns on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway

This incident once again brings attention to the safety challenges on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, one of Maharashtra's busiest and most vital roadways. With high traffic volumes, particularly during early morning hours, accidents are not uncommon.

To prevent such mishaps, authorities urge regular vehicle maintenance, adherence to speed limits, and ensuring proper functionality of critical components like brakes.

The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in road travel. While the injured passengers are currently receiving medical care, it is essential for drivers and transport operators to prioritize safety to avoid similar tragedies in the future.