Following the Kurnool bus accident, the Nellore Transport Department has intensified inspections of private travel operators. The RTO conducted checks at the Poole Bomma Center in Nellore city, targeting vehicles violating transport rules. Buses without proper documents or functional emergency exits are being fined, and cases have already been registered against offenders. Officials also warned that buses with berths installed near the driver’s seat or emergency exits, in violation of regulations, will face strict action.

RTO officer Madani stated that the department is committed to enforcing safety norms rigorously. “Our Deputy Transport Commissioner, Sri Chander, formed teams to identify violations of motor vehicle regulations. Today, we are focusing on emergency exit passages. Ten cases have already been booked, and vehicles have been seized,” he said. Three teams in Nellore are currently inspecting buses for emergency exits, documentation, and overall fitness.

In response to the tragedy, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar urged all states to implement safety measures. He said the Kurnool bus fire, which claimed 19 lives, is a stark reminder of the need for stricter regulations. “It is a tragic incident and a lesson for all of us. A probe should be conducted, and all states should take preventive measures. We pray for the families of the deceased. Fifteen days ago, a similar incident occurred with a Blue Line bus, but fortunately, there were no casualties,” he added.

Karnataka Minister MB Patil emphasized identifying the accident’s cause and providing compensation. “We must understand the reason behind this tragedy. I pray for the families affected and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. Appropriate compensation should be provided to those who lost their lives,” he said.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep concern over the mishap near Kurnool and instructed ministers and officials to rush to the site and implement relief measures. The accident involved a private bus traveling from Hyderabad to Bangalore, which caught fire near Chinnatekuru village in Kallur mandal, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The injured were admitted to Kurnool General Hospital. Despite being on a UAE tour, the Chief Minister held a teleconference with ministers, the Chief Secretary, the DGP, and the Kurnool district collector, directing them to identify and hand over the bodies to relatives and to conduct an inquiry into the incident.