Mangaluru: Seven students sustained minor injuries after a fish-laden canter truck rammed into the rear of a school bus at Kapikad on National Highway 66 at around 8:00 am on Monday. The bus was on its morning pickup route when the collision occurred, triggering panic among students and local commuters.
Collision during morning pickup round
According to preliminary information, the school bus belonging to Sharada Niketan Public School & College was picking up students from the roadside and proceeding toward Talapady when the incident took place.
Officials said the bus had slowed down to allow students to board when a canter truck transporting fish reportedly crashed into it from behind with considerable force. The impact damaged the rear portion of the bus and caused several students to be jolted from their seats.
Local residents and passersby rushed to the spot immediately after hearing the loud crash and helped move the children to safety.
Seven students suffer minor injuries
A total of 24 students were travelling on the bus at the time of the accident. Of them, seven — including four boys and three girls — sustained minor injuries such as bruises and impact-related pain.
Emergency assistance was arranged quickly, and the injured students were shifted for medical examination and treatment. Most were treated on an outpatient basis and later discharged.
Doctors who examined the children said the injuries were not life-threatening but required observation and basic care due to the nature of the collision.
One student shifted for advanced care
The injured were initially taken to Netaji Ellappa Hospital for treatment. Medical staff provided first aid and conducted precautionary checks.
One student who suffered a leg injury was later referred to K S Hegde Hospital for further evaluation and specialised treatment. Hospital sources said the child was stable and under observation.
Parents were informed promptly, and school authorities coordinated with medical teams to ensure timely care.
Driver suspected to have dozed off
Preliminary reports indicate that the truck driver, identified as Sanjeev, a native of Kundapur, may have briefly dozed off while driving, leading to the rear-end collision. However, officials said this aspect is yet to be confirmed through formal investigation.
Police personnel visited the accident site, recorded statements from the bus staff and witnesses, and inspected both vehicles. Mechanical condition, speed factors and driver fatigue are among the angles being examined.
The truck, which was carrying fish from Goa toward Kerala, was seized for inspection as part of the probe.
Investigation underway
Authorities have begun a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. CCTV footage from nearby establishments and highway cameras, if available, is also expected to be reviewed.
School representatives stated that safety protocols were followed during the pickup round and that the bus had slowed appropriately when the crash occurred. They added that additional safety briefings would be conducted for drivers and attendants as a precautionary step.
The incident has once again highlighted the risks of rear-end collisions involving heavy vehicles on busy highway stretches during peak school commute hours. Officials said necessary legal action will follow based on investigation findings.