Bus travelled at 100 kmph through curves; overspeeding caused Kuttippuram accident, says MVD report

Malappuram: Overspeeding was the main cause of the Kuttippuram bus accident, according to an investigation report by the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD). The report, submitted to the Transport Commissioner, mentions the factors that led to the accident and specifically points out overspeeding.

The investigation found that the bus was travelling at a speed of around 100 kmph, even while negotiating curves, at the time of the accident. There were two curves near the accident spot. Although the bus crossed the first curve, it lost control at the second curve due to excessive speed, the report said.

Moreover, roads were water logged as it was raining. When the speeding bus travelled over these water layers, hydroplaning occurred. This reduced the friction between the tyres and the road, causing the driver to lose control, after which the bus crashed into the divider, according to the report.

Eyewitnesses had stated on the day of the accident itself that excessive speed was the cause. The preliminary conclusions of both the Motor Vehicles Department and the police were also the same.

The accident occurred on July 26 on the six-lane road near the Kuttippuram railway overbridge. The bus hit the divider and overturned. A native of Peruvayal in Kozhikode died in the accident, while 38 others were injured. The bus was travelling from Kozhikode to Thrissur when the accident occurred.