A tragic scene unfolded in Tamil Nadu on Sunday when two government-operated buses crashed head-on, leaving multiple passengers dead and many more injured. The accident, which happened near the Thirupathur–Karaikudi stretch in Sivaganga district, triggered a massive rescue operation as dozens of commuters were left trapped in the mangled remains of the vehicles.

Different Death Toll Figures Emerge

Authorities have not yet confirmed a final count of the dead, but early numbers coming in from various officials paint a devastating picture.
Some officers at the site reported at least seven fatalities, while another team involved in rescue efforts estimated “at least 10 were killed and 20 passengers suffered injuries.” A later assessment shared with PTI mentioned 11 victims: eight women, two men, and one child who were believed to have died instantly.

Despite the differing figures, all agencies agree that the number could rise, as several survivors are in critical condition.

Chaos at the Accident Site

The crash took place on a highway stretch not far from Karaikudi. One bus was making its way towards Karaikudi, while the other was travelling towards Madurai. Additional accounts suggest one vehicle had begun its journey from Tiruppur, and the other was headed in the direction of Dindigul.

The impact was so severe that the front section of one bus was completely crushed. Images recorded by bystanders showed shattered bodies of the vehicles, passengers bleeding on the road, and some people climbing out through the broken front windows. A few victims were pulled out by fellow commuters and local residents before firefighters and medical personnel arrived.

Hospitals Filled With Survivours

More than 20 injured passengers have been transported to government hospitals nearby, including the Sivagangai Government Hospital. Health officials said many suffered fractures, head injuries, and severe trauma, making the next 24 hours crucial for their survival.

Cause of the Crash Still Unknown

A senior district official said the investigation is still at an early stage. According to him, “it was a head-on collision, the reason is not clear, we are looking into it.”

Police teams are examining whether speeding, driver error, poor visibility, or road conditions contributed to the tragedy. Traffic along the route has been temporarily blocked to allow rescue vehicles and investigators to work without obstruction.

Second Major Bus Tragedy in a Week

This incident comes just days after another severe bus crash in Tenkasi district, where six people were killed and more than 50 were injured. In that case, two private buses rammed into each other, leaving both vehicles completely twisted and prompting a large-scale rescue operation. Investigators had earlier hinted that reckless driving may have played a role in the Tenkasi accident.

A Community in Shock

Sunday’s collision has once again raised questions about road safety and driver discipline on busy Tamil Nadu highways. Families of the injured have gathered at hospitals, waiting anxiously for updates, while investigators continue piecing together what led to the deadly head-on crash.