In a concerning incident today, a passenger shuttle bus lost control and crashed into a pillar at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport, resulting in injuries to at least 10 individuals. The accident occurred at approximately 5:15 am, leaving authorities and passengers shaken by the sudden turn of events.
The shuttle bus, carrying a total of 17 people, including 15 passengers and two crew members, experienced a loss of control before colliding with a pillar at the airport. Among those injured, a two-year-old child was unfortunately caught up in the accident. Prompt action was taken, with all injured individuals being swiftly transported to a nearby hospital for immediate medical attention. Thankfully, five individuals have already been discharged from the hospital, as reported by officials.
The spokesperson for Bengaluru airport provided details about the incident, stating, “At approximately 5:15 AM on June 18, 2023, a shuttle bus operating between T1 and T2 of BLR Airport collided with a pole near the T2 Arrival exit road, resulting in injuries to 10 people. There was a total of 17 passengers (15 passengers and 2 staff) who were onboard the bus. The injured were taken to a hospital for immediate medical attention.”
The shuttle services at the airport are managed by AI STATS under a service contract awarded to them by BIAL (Bengaluru International Airport Limited). In response to the incident, the airport authorities are collaborating with the shuttle operator to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. They have assured that appropriate measures will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future, in accordance with the agreement.
The Kempegowda Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the accident. Preliminary reports suggest that the driver may have dozed off at the wheel, leading to the loss of control and subsequent crash. Sources within the airport have indicated this as a possible cause for the unfortunate incident.
As the investigation progresses, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety measures, even within airport premises. Authorities and stakeholders will need to carefully review protocols and take necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers, staff, and drivers.
The incident at Bengaluru airport highlights the need for continued vigilance and preventive measures in all transportation operations. Efforts must be made to enhance driver training and implement mechanisms to detect and prevent driver fatigue, especially during early morning hours. As travelers and airport personnel await the outcome of the investigation, the hope is that valuable lessons will be learned to prevent such accidents from occurring again in the future.
Sources By Agencies
