Karnataka: 9 killed, 21 Injured As Sleeper Bus Catches Fire After Collision

A container truck jumped the divider and hit the fuel tank of a Seabird bus en route to Gokarna; Prime Minister announces ₹2 lakh ex-gratia for the deceased.

December 25, 2025: A horrific road accident claimed the lives of at least 11 people in the early hours of Thursday, December 25, 2025. A private sleeper coach bus, travelling from Bengaluru to Gokarna, erupted into a fireball on National Highway 48 near Gorlathu Cross in Hiriyur taluk after a head-on collision with a container truck.

The Inferno on NH 48

The accident occurred around 2:00 AM when a lorry heading toward Bengaluru lost control, crossed the central divider, and slammed into the oncoming bus.

• The Impact: According to IGP (East) B.R. Ravikanthe Gowda, the truck rammed directly into the bus’s diesel tank. The resulting leak triggered an instantaneous fire that trapped passengers who were in deep sleep.
• The Casualties: While initial reports stated nine deaths, the toll has risen to 11. This includes eight bus passengers and the truck driver, identified as Kuldeep.
• Narrow Escape: A school bus carrying 48 children from T Dasrahalli to Dandeli was passing by at the exact moment. The school bus driver witnessed the fire and managed to swerve away, ensuring all children escaped unhurt.
• Medical Response: Over 20 people sustained injuries. One victim with 20% burns was airlifted to Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru, while others are being treated in Hiriyur and Shira.

PM’s Compensation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sadness over the tragedy and announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from the PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.