Glitch-ridden bus hits truck in Andhra Pradesh; 14 burn to death, how a passenger smashed windows and saved lives

VIJAYAWADA: Amid the horror of the devastating bus accident near Rayavaram, a story of courage and humanity has emerged. As flames engulfed the ill-fated Nellore-bound bus and panic gripped passengers, one of them onboard put his life on the line to save the rest. The accident turned into a nightmare in moments. Survivors recalled being jolted awake by a deafening crash, followed by thick smoke and rapidly spreading fire. Trapped inside the burning bus, many struggled to find a way out.It was in these critical moments that Kola Balaraju, 47, one of the passengers and a resident of Krishnapalem village in Hanumantuni Padu mandal of Kanigiri constituency, sprang into action. Ignoring his own safety, he began smashing the bus windows, creating escape routes for fellow passengers. Eyewitnesses said his quick thinking and bravery helped many crawl out of the burning vehicle."Had he not broken the windows, many more lives would have been lost," said a survivor, still shaken by the ordeal. As passengers scrambled to escape, Balaraju continued to help others even as he sustained injuries in the process. He was later shifted to the Markapuram govt hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment. Balaraju's act of courage has earned him widespread praise, with many calling him a real-life hero. Thursday's tragedy has left several families grief-stricken, but Balaraju's bravery stands out as a powerful reminder of human resilience and compassion even in the face of disaster.