11-year-old dies after tree crashes onto school bus in Mumbai, 5 children injured
A routine journey home from school turned into a tragedy in Mumbai on Tuesday when an 11-year-old student lost his life after a large roadside tree crashed onto a school bus in the city's Chembur area.
Five other children sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital, while several students escaped unharmed.
According to officials, the bus, belonging to Universal High School, was carrying around 18 students when the tree suddenly collapsed onto the vehicle on Road No 11 in Chembur.
The impact severely damaged one side of the bus, trapping some of the children inside.
Emergency services, police personnel, and civic officials quickly reached the scene and began rescue operations. A crane was also brought in to remove the heavy tree and safely evacuate the students.
The injured children were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. While one 11-year-old student succumbed to injuries, the remaining five are undergoing treatment and are reported to be in stable condition, according to initial official updates.
Most of the other students on board escaped without serious injuries. The incident occurred amid heavy monsoon conditions in Mumbai, with rain and gusty winds affecting several parts of the city.
Authorities are examining whether the weather, the condition of the tree, or any lapse in maintenance contributed to the collapse.
Civic officials have also begun assessing nearby trees to prevent similar accidents during the ongoing monsoon season.
The tragic accident has once again raised concerns over public safety during the rains, particularly regarding ageing roadside trees and the need for regular inspections near schools and busy roads.
Police have launched an investigation into the incident, while the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is expected to submit a report on the circumstances leading to the tree fall