Kasargod/Talapady: A tragic accident struck near Talapady on the Karnataka–Kerala border when a KSRTC bus, en route from Kasaragod to Mangaluru, reportedly suffered brake failure. The bus veered off course and rammed into a bus shelter and nearby auto-rickshaw, killing six people and injuring several others.
Brake failure leads to tragedy
The KSRTC bus lost control after a brake failure incident around 1:15 pm. It crashed into a bus stop where a family of four was waiting. Four adults—three women and a man from the same family—were killed on the spot. A minor girl also lost her life in the accident. Several other individuals at the bus stand and inside a nearby auto-rickshaw were seriously injured and rushed to a local hospital.
Toll among victims and emergency response
The deceased included five adults and one child, including members of a single family. Seven others were critically injured and taken to a hospital for treatment. Authorities—including KSRTC and transport officials—immediately launched rescue and relief operations at the site.
Investigation and safety concerns follow
A preliminary investigation is underway focusing on possible mechanical failure, specifically the brake system, and maintenance practices. Authorities are assessing the condition of the bus and reviewing transport protocols. The incident has reignited concerns over public transportation safety and vehicle upkeep on inter-state corridors.
This devastating incident highlights serious vulnerabilities in public transport safety—particularly brake maintenance and vehicle inspection protocols. The loss of six lives, including that of a child, underscores the urgent need for stricter safety enforcement, comprehensive maintenance checks, and accountability within public transport operations.