Rangat(Middle Andaman) : A State Transport Services (STS) bus narrowly escaped a major tragedy after veering off the Bakultala-Kalsi road in Rangat Tehsil of Middle Andaman on Tuesday morning, with areca nut and banana trees preventing the vehicle from overturning. The accident occurred this morning when the ageing STS bus was returning after completing its scheduled trip to the interior Kalsi area. There were only six to seven passengers on board at the time of the incident.
According to passengers, a loud cracking sound was heard moments before the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to plunge off the roadside. Fortunately, the bus was halted by a cluster of banana and sturdy areca nut (supari) trees, which acted as a natural barrier and prevented a potentially fatal rollover.
In a remarkable escape, no fatalities or serious injuries were reported. Only one passenger sustained minor scratches. Preliminary reports indicate that the accident may have been caused by the failure of a leaf spring, leading to loss of steering control. However, the exact cause will be known only after a detailed technical investigation. A heavy-duty hydraulic crane was later deployed to recover the damaged bus from the accident site.
The latest mishap has intensified concerns over the deteriorating condition of the STS fleet in North and Middle Andaman. This is the third major STS bus accident in the region within just 15 days, triggering renewed demands for the replacement of ageing buses and improved maintenance.
