Mysuru: A major tragedy was narrowly averted near Mysuru after a KSRTC bus carrying around 55 passengers became stranded on a railway level crossing due to a technical malfunction. Timely action by railway authorities, bus staff and local residents prevented what could have turned into a serious accident involving a nearby goods train.
The incident occurred at the railway crossing on KRS Road near the Outer Ring Road junction when the bus, travelling from the City Bus Stand towards Srirangapatna, developed a steering-related problem while crossing the tracks.
Bus gets stuck on railway crossing
According to initial reports, the bus suffered a steering rod malfunction while passing over the railway crossing, causing the vehicle to come to a halt directly on the tracks.
The unexpected breakdown created a tense situation as the bus remained stranded in the middle of the crossing. At the same time, a goods train stationed at the Mysuru-Belagola Bypass Cabin (MBBC) station, located approximately 500 metres away, was preparing to depart towards Mysuru.
The presence of the train nearby raised concerns over a possible collision if immediate action had not been taken.
Railway staff respond quickly
As part of standard operational procedures, the station master reportedly contacted track maintainer Anil Kumar to inform him that the goods train was ready for departure and instructed him to close the railway gate.
However, upon noticing that the bus was stranded on the tracks, Anil Kumar immediately alerted the station master and instructed him not to allow the train to proceed until further confirmation was received.
Acting swiftly, railway authorities halted the movement of the goods train, preventing a potentially serious accident.
The prompt communication between railway staff played a crucial role in ensuring passenger safety.
Passengers evacuated and bus removed
Shortly after the bus became stranded, the driver and conductor quickly evacuated passengers from the vehicle as a precautionary measure.
The bus crew, along with a few local residents, then joined efforts to physically push the stranded vehicle away from the railway crossing.
After nearly 18 minutes of coordinated effort, the bus was successfully moved away from the tracks.
Once the crossing was cleared, Anil Kumar informed the station master that the track was safe for train movement. Authorities then allowed the goods train to resume its journey towards Mysuru.
Authorities inspect bus and register case
Following the incident, mechanics from Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation arrived at the location and conducted an inspection of the vehicle to determine the cause of the technical fault.
Personnel from the Railway Protection Force later visited the spot and registered a case for further investigation.
Officials said the incident highlighted the importance of rapid communication and coordination between railway authorities and transport personnel during emergencies.
The alertness of railway staff, prompt evacuation by the bus crew and assistance from local residents ultimately prevented a major mishap and ensured the safety of all passengers on board.