Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 16 November 2024
Two lives were tragically lost, and several others were injured in a State Transport Services (STS) bus accident near the Rest Camp area in North and Middle Andaman District on the morning of 15 November 2024. The bus, traveling from Rangat towards Mayabunder, veered out of control on a slope, reportedly due to mechanical failure, resulting in a catastrophic crash.
The accident left the bus in shambles, with post-incident images showing extensive damage, highlighting the severity of the incident. Passengers suffered significant injuries, with some critically wounded.
Rescue and Medical Response:
Injured passengers were initially treated at PHC Tugapur, the nearest healthcare facility. Many were later transferred to Dr. Rajendra Prasad Hospital in Mayabunder for advanced care. Those with life-threatening injuries were airlifted to G.B. Pant Hospital in Sri Vijaya Puram using helicopters. Additionally, a vessel was diverted to Mayabunder to transport patients who could not be evacuated by air due to various reasons.
Ageing Fleet and Negligence Exposed:
The bus involved in the crash, bearing registration number AN01D0129, was over 18 years old. Records reveal the vehicle’s registration certificate had been cancelled, and its fitness certificate had also expired on 28 June 2023. Despite these glaring violations, the bus continued to operate, raising serious concerns about the negligence of the State Transport Services.
Local residents and passengers confirmed the poor condition of the bus, citing its deteriorated state and prior issues with its brakes. Survivors of the crash reported that brake failure may have contributed to the accident.
Victims and Ongoing Impact:
Among those killed were a vegetable vendor and a police home guard. Several injured passengers remain hospitalised, with some fighting for their lives.
Demand for Accountability:Â
This accident has sparked outrage, with demands for action against the senior officials of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration’s Transport Department. Critics argue that operating unfit vehicles constitutes gross negligence and endangers public safety.
Nicobar Times had previously reported in September 2023 on STS buses being operated without valid registration and fitness certificates. Despite public and media warnings, no corrective measures were implemented.
Residents and activists are now calling for strict legal action against the Secretary of Transport, the Director of Transport, and other officials responsible for permitting such vehicles to operate. They argue that the accountability should also extend to mid-level and junior officials who oversaw the bus’s operation.
The tragedy underscores the urgent need for stringent enforcement of vehicle safety regulations to prevent such avoidable incidents in the future.