Idukki KSRTC accident: MVD rules out brake failure, investigates other causes

Idukki: A tragic bus accident in Pullupara, Idukki, claimed the lives of four passengers and left several others injured early Monday morning. The KSRTC bus, carrying 34 passengers, fell into a 30-foot-deep gorge near Kuttikkanam and Mundakayam around 6:15 am.

Four passengers were killed in the accident, and the injured passengers were rushed to nearby hospitals, with two reported to be in critical condition. The bus was returning from Thanjavur to Mavelikkara when the accident occurred.

Initial reports from passengers suggested that a brake failure caused the accident. However, a detailed investigation led by the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) has ruled out brake issues. The inspection team, headed by MVD Idukki Enforcement Officer KK Rajeev and Vandiperiyar Sub RTO TM Ibrahimkutty, confirmed that the bus's speed governor and GPS system were intact.

The bus was moved to the police station compound on the night of the accident, Monday, for a thorough examination. Authorities are continuing their probe to identify other potential technical failures or causes of the crash.

Fire Force teams from Peerumade and Mundakayam, along with police and MVD officials, conducted rescue operations at the site. The bodies of the deceased have been kept at Mundakayam Medical Trust Hospital.