The death toll in the recent BEST bus accident in Mumbai has climbed to four as confirmed by officials. Two additional fatalities were reported, bringing the total to four. Nine others sustained injuries in the incident and are currently in stable condition, according to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
The tragic event occurred late on Monday when a BEST bus lost control and collided with pedestrians on the roadside. Reports indicate that the bus struck between 10 and 12 pedestrians before coming to a stop. The accident took place as the driver was attempting to reverse the bus at the end of its route.
The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) operates India’s largest public bus fleet. Following the incident, prompt responses from the police, fire department, and rescue teams were observed at the scene. The injured individuals were swiftly taken to nearby hospitals for medical attention.
The driver involved in the accident has been identified as Santosh Ramesh Sawant, aged 52, while Bhagwan Bhau Ghare, aged 47, served as the bus conductor. The deceased victims have been identified as Pranita Sandip Rasam, Varsha Sawant, Mansi Meghshyam Gurav, and Prashant Shinde.
Authorities deployed a significant police presence to manage the situation and regulate traffic in the area after the accident. Eyewitnesses reported that the bus seemed to be speeding before veering off course and hitting pedestrians. Police are currently verifying these claims as part of their investigation into the incident.
An inquiry has been initiated to establish the sequence of events leading to the accident, including examining the potential involvement of mechanical failure or other factors. Investigations into the matter are ongoing, with further details awaited.
