The tragic BEST bus accident in Mumbai’s Kurla claimed seven lives and left 49 others injured on Monday night. The incident occurred when an electric bus lost control, plowed through a crowded marketplace near Kurla Railway Station, damaging vehicles and injuring pedestrians before crashing into a compound wall.
Financial Aid Announced
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. Additionally, Mumbai Municipal Corporation and BEST have been directed to bear the medical expenses of the injured.
Eyewitness Accounts
The accident, which occurred around 9:50 PM on S G Barve Marg, has left survivors in shock. Witnesses reported that the bus was speeding through a narrow lane congested with street vendors and pedestrians.
- Basheera Shaikh, an autorickshaw passenger, said the bus hit their vehicle, throwing her out while destroying the rickshaw.
- Mohammed Sajid, attending a wedding nearby, recounted being hit alongside friends, all of whom were later reunited at the hospital with varying injuries.
- Rehmunissa, who was shopping with her family, shared that all four members were struck by the bus, with her family sustaining severe injuries.
Heartbreaking Loss
Among the victims was 20-year-old Afreen Shah, who tragically died on her first day at a new job. Her father, Abdul Salim Shah, recalled speaking to her minutes before the accident as she struggled to find an autorickshaw. Moments later, he received a distressing call from Bhabha Hospital, only to discover his daughter’s death.
Aftermath and Investigation
The chaos was captured in CCTV footage, showing the devastation and panic following the crash. The bus driver, who reportedly attempted to flee, was caught and handed over to the police by bystanders. Multiple vehicles, including cars and autorickshaws, were damaged during the incident.
Ongoing Relief Efforts
The injured have been admitted to various hospitals across Mumbai for treatment. Authorities continue their investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident, while residents demand improved safety measures in the area.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance on city roads.
