KSRTC report attributes speeding as cause of crash that killed five medical students

ALAPPUZHA: An accident on the National Highway near Kalarkode claimed the lives of five medical students late Saturday night. Preliminary investigations by KSRTC authorities indicate that speeding and adverse weather conditions contributed to the fatal collision.

The accident occurred at approximately 9:30 PM when a car carrying first-year MBBS students from Alappuzha Medical College collided with a KSRTC fast passenger bus traveling from Guruvayur to Kayamkulam. The car, reportedly attempting to overtake another vehicle, lost control and skidded due to heavy rain, crashing into the front of the bus.

According to the KSRTC inspection report, the bus driver, upon noticing the speeding car, had pulled over to the left side of the road. However, the car veered uncontrollably, leading to the collision. Authorities cited the car driver's inattention and poor visibility caused by the downpour as contributing factors.

The victims were identified as Muhammad Jabbar (Kannur), Ayush Shaji (Kottayam), Devanand (Malappuram), Sridev Valsan (Palakkad), and Muhammad Ibrahim (Lakshadweep). All were first-year MBBS students at Alappuzha Medical College.

An 11-member group, including the victims, had been traveling to Alappuzha for a movie when the tragedy struck. Six other passengers in the car sustained injuries, with two reported to be in critical condition. Two women on the bus were also injured and are receiving treatment.