After bus tragedy, Andhra Pradesh bans night travel on ghat roads

The ban affects private long-distance buses headed to northern Telangana and Maharashtra, as well as routes to hilly areas such as Tirumala and along the Kadapa–Rayachoti stretch. It could be relaxed after winter, once the fog lifts.

A private bus carrying 37 people — most of them pilgrims — lost control and rolled off the road while negotiating a sharp curve on a ghat road amid thick winter fog in the early hours of Friday. Preliminary assessments pointed to dense fog, sharp bends and poor visibility as key factors, the minister said.

In response, the government directed officials to strictly enforce restrictions on vehicle movement during night hours on ghat roads across agency areas. The ban applies to all categories of vehicles, including private buses, cars and heavy transport vehicles, during fog-prone hours. Authorities have been instructed to ensure no vehicle movement at night when visibility is low.

The home department has also ordered officials to identify accident-prone stretches, install warning signboards, and ensure that only experienced and specially licensed drivers operate vehicles on hill roads. Police and transport officials have been asked to conduct regular checks to ensure compliance with safety norms.

The government announced ex-gratia compensation for the families of the deceased and assured medical assistance to the injured. According to Home Minister Anitha, both the state and Centre have announced ex gratia. Each family of the deceased will receive Rs 5 lakh from the state and Rs 2 lakh from the Centre, totalling Rs 7 lakh. Those with serious injuries will receive Rs 2 lakh, while those with minor injuries will get Rs 50,000.

Ghat roads in ASR district and other tribal areas are known for steep gradients, narrow roads and sharp curves, making night travel particularly risky. Reiterating the government’s stand, Anitha said safeguarding human lives is the state’s top priority.

“No loss of life should occur due to negligence or risky travel conditions. Officials have been instructed to strictly enforce the night travel ban and implement all necessary safety measures on ghat roads,” she said.