Accident – Ministers Visit Markapuram Bus Crash Survivors, Announce Aid
Accident – State ministers visited injured passengers recovering at Ongole Government General Hospital on Friday, following the tragic bus accident in Markapuram that claimed multiple lives. Medical officials confirmed that all those admitted are currently in stable condition and are being closely monitored by hospital staff.
Ministers Review Treatment and Meet Victims
Social Welfare Minister Dr Dola Sree Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy and Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar personally interacted with the injured, inquiring about their health and the care being provided. They assured patients and their families that the government would extend all necessary assistance during recovery.
The ministers also expressed their condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident. Officials stated that 14 people died in the incident, while several others sustained serious injuries.
Government Orders Inquiry Into the Incident
Describing the accident as deeply unfortunate, Dr Swamy said that the state leadership is treating the matter with urgency. He confirmed that Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu is closely tracking the situation and has directed authorities to conduct a detailed investigation into the cause of the accident.
According to officials, strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible once the inquiry is completed. The administration has emphasized accountability and safety compliance as key priorities moving forward.
Compensation Announced for Victims and Families
In response to the tragedy, the state government has announced financial assistance for those affected. Families of the deceased will receive Rs 5 lakh each, while those injured in the accident will be provided Rs 2 lakh as support for medical expenses and recovery.
Additionally, the Union Government has also declared compensation. It has approved Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for individuals who sustained injuries.
Officials stated that the compensation process would be carried out promptly to ensure timely relief reaches the affected families.
Local Representatives Join Relief Efforts
Several local leaders accompanied the ministers during their hospital visit, including Ongole MLA Damacharla Janardhan Rao, SN Padu MLA BN Vijay Kumar, and Kandukuru MLA Inturi Nageswara Rao. OUDA Chairman Shaik Riyaz and district-level officials were also present, coordinating efforts to support victims and their families.
Authorities said that all necessary arrangements are being made to assist those impacted by the accident, including logistical and administrative support.
Post-Mortem Process and Identification Measures
Meanwhile, post-mortem examinations of the deceased were completed at Markapuram Government General Hospital. Officials confirmed that DNA samples have been collected and sent for forensic analysis to ensure accurate identification before the bodies are handed over to the families.
This step is being taken as a precautionary measure to avoid any errors during the identification process.
Police Register Case, Investigation Underway
Law enforcement agencies have initiated legal action in connection with the accident. Police have registered a case under Section 304(A), which deals with causing death due to negligence. The case has been filed against the bus driver, identified as P Yuvaraju, and the owner of the travel agency, Harikrishna.
Officials confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and further details will emerge as inquiries progress.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns around road safety and passenger transport oversight. Authorities have indicated that findings from the investigation will be used to strengthen safety measures and prevent similar tragedies in the future.