Kottayam, Dec 3(HS): More than 20 students from Government Higher Secondary School, Thonnakkal, in Thiruvananthapuram sustained injuries after a tourist bus carrying them overturned on the Pala–Thodupuzha road at Ramapuram in the early hours of Wednesday.
The students were returning from an excursion to Kodaikanal when the accident occurred around 2.30 a.m. According to initial reports, the bus skidded off the road while negotiating the sharp and notoriously dangerous Choorapetta curve near Nellappara, a stretch known for its steep gradient and accident-prone bends. The vehicle lost control and toppled onto its side, triggering chaos and panic among the students, many of whom were asleep at the time.
Local residents, who heard the loud impact, rushed to the scene and initiated rescue efforts even before emergency teams arrived. With the help of police personnel and Fire and Rescue Services, the injured students were quickly shifted to the Government Hospital in Pala. Hospital authorities confirmed that none of the students suffered life-threatening injuries. Most sustained minor fractures, abrasions, or shock-related symptoms.
Police said the bus was one of three vehicles transporting a group of 45 students and teachers. Preliminary findings suggest the road’s slippery condition, combined with the sharp turn, may have caused the driver to lose control. Officials are also examining whether fatigue played a role, as the journey was long and the accident occurred in the early hours.
Parents of the students were immediately informed, and most of the injured remain under observation. Hospital staff said all students are stable and expected to recover soon. Meanwhile, police have begun a detailed investigation to assess whether any negligence or mechanical issues contributed to the accident.
Local residents reiterated long-standing concerns about the Choorapetta curve, pointing out that several mishaps have occurred there over the years. They urged authorities to implement safety measures such as improved lighting, speed-regulating structures, and warning signage.
Officials said further measures would be discussed after completing the preliminary inquiry. The district administration has assured that all medical expenses for the injured students will be covered.
Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
