Mumbai: A tragic accident involving a Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) bus in Mumbai’s Kurla West area claimed the lives of at least seven people and left 42 others injured on Monday night. The bus, operating on route 332, lost control and caused a massive collision, hitting pedestrians and damaging 30-40 vehicles before crashing into the wall of a residential building near Kurla railway station.

According to police reports, the incident occurred when the driver of the bus, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, lost control of the vehicle. Witnesses reported chaos as the bus ploughed through the crowded area, leaving several people injured and vehicles mangled. Initial investigations suggest that brake failure might have contributed to the accident.

Emergency responders rushed the injured to Kurla’s Bhabha Hospital for treatment. Among the 42 injured, four remain in critical condition. Local authorities have confirmed that efforts are underway to provide medical assistance to the victims and support to their families.

The bus was traveling from Kurla Station to Andheri when the fatal accident took place. Police have detained the driver and are conducting further investigations into the incident. The authorities are also examining whether the bus underwent proper maintenance checks, as brake failure has been cited as a possible cause.

This tragic incident has once again highlighted the importance of ensuring public transport safety in densely populated areas like Mumbai. Locals in Kurla West have demanded stricter checks on public transport vehicles and drivers to prevent such accidents in the future.

Authorities have assured that those responsible for the accident will face strict action and that measures will be taken to improve the safety of public transport in Mumbai.