Kurla BEST Bus Accident: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Expresses Grief Over Tragedy That Killed 6, Announces ₹5 Lakh Aid For Deceased's Kin

Mumbai: A devastating accident involving a BEST bus occurred on SG Barve Road in Kurla West on Monday evening, December 9, leaving six people dead and 43 others injured, as reported by the BMC Disaster Control. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep grief over the tragedy, extending condolences to the families of the deceased and wishing a swift recovery for the injured.

Fadnavis announced financial aid of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased from the Chief Minister’s Aid Fund and assured that the treatment expenses for the injured would be covered by the Mumbai Municipal Corporation and BEST.

Details On The Accident

The horrifying accident took place around 9:30 pm in the crowded Kurla West market. A BEST air-conditioned electric bus on Route No. A-332 plowed through at least 25 vehicles, injuring pedestrians and damaging property. The bus was reportedly driven by Sanjay More, who was allegedly drunk. As per reports, eyewitnesses claimed the driver appeared to be laughing and enjoying the chaos as the vehicle travelled 500 metres through the congested area before coming to a halt.

CCTV Footage Of Accident Goes Viral

The accident occurred near the L Ward office on SG Barve Road, close to the Anjuman-e-Islam School. Police and BMC officials confirmed the bus was en route to Sakinaka. CCTV footage captured scenes of panic, showing people screaming and running to escape the speeding vehicle. Kurla police and local authorities immediately reached the site, transporting the injured to Bhabha Hospital and nearby private clinics.

Details On The Deceased

The deceased were identified as Kaniz Fatema Ansari (55), Afreen A. Shaikh (19), Anam Shaikh (18), and Shivam Kashyap (18). Many of the injured remain in critical condition. The accident caused extensive damage to autorickshaws, scooters, motorcycles, cars, and a police jeep.

Initial reports suggest a possible brake failure, but the driver’s alleged intoxication has raised serious concerns. Sanjay More has been booked on multiple charges, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Police are investigating the exact cause of the accident.