A tragic road accident occurred late Friday night near Mavalli Cross in Yellapur when a KSRTC bus traveling from Bagalkote to Mangaluru rammed into a stationary lorry. The impact claimed the lives of three individuals on the spot, identified as Nilavva Haradolli (40) from Bagalkote, Girijavva Budannavar (30) from Jalihaal village, and a 45-year-old man whose identity is yet to be established. Seven passengers were severely injured in the mishap, including two children aged 7 and 12, whose conditions remain critical. The victims were reportedly heading to Mangaluru for work purposes, and their families have been devastated by the sudden tragedy.

According to preliminary police investigations, the lorry, belonging to a Kerala-based operator, had been parked on the roadside without proper indicators or warning signs. The KSRTC bus, allegedly moving at high speed, collided with the rear of the lorry, mangling one side of the bus beyond recognition. Officials suspect that the accident may have occurred while the bus driver, identified as Yamanappa Magi, was attempting to overtake another vehicle. While the bus driver and conductor survived with non-life-threatening injuries, the accident once again highlighted the dangers posed by poorly parked heavy vehicles on highways.

The injured were rushed to KIMS Hospital in Hubballi, where medical staff are battling to stabilize their condition. Meanwhile, Yellapur police reached the scene shortly after the accident, conducted an inspection, and shifted the deceased bodies to the local hospital mortuary. A formal case has been registered against the bus driver. The incident has reignited concerns over highway safety, reckless driving, and negligence in following basic traffic rules. Families of the victims, as well as locals, have urged authorities to enforce stricter safety regulations and prevent such avoidable tragedies on national highways.