Pathanamthitta, 9 Dec (H.S.): More than 30 people, including several Sabarimala pilgrims, were injured on Tuesday after two buses operated by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) collided head-on at Chakkupalam near Pampa in Pathanamthitta district. The accident occurred on the busy Pampa–Nilakkal chain service route, a crucial stretch used by pilgrims travelling to the hill shrine.
According to preliminary reports, the crash took place while both buses were negotiating a sharp curve at Chakkupalam. Eye-witnesses alleged that negligent driving may have led to the accident, as the vehicles were moving at considerable speed despite the narrow and winding nature of the road.
While none of the injured are reported to be in critical condition, a child identified as Mangala sustained a head injury and is currently under close medical observation. Of the total injured, around 10 people — including both bus drivers — were shifted to the Government Medical College Hospital in Kottayam for specialised treatment. The remaining injured passengers were admitted to a hospital at Nilakkal.
The collision caused major traffic disruption along the Pampa–Nilakkal route for over an hour, affecting hundreds of pilgrims heading towards Sabarimala. Police and Fire and Rescue Services personnel rushed to the spot and undertook a difficult operation to remove the damaged buses from the narrow roadway. The rescue work was delayed due to heavy crowding and the challenging terrain.
Senior police officials said a detailed investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident. Statements from the drivers and passengers are being recorded, and the condition of the vehicles is also being examined. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of mechanical failure along with human error.
The accident has once again raised serious concerns over road safety on the Pampa–Nilakkal stretch, which witnesses heavy vehicular movement during the pilgrimage season. Despite repeated warnings, overspeeding and risky overtaking continue to be reported on the route, posing danger to both pilgrims and transport staff.
District authorities have assured that stronger monitoring measures will be put in place to prevent similar incidents. Meanwhile, KSRTC officials said internal action would be initiated if driver negligence is confirmed.
Normal traffic was restored along the route after the damaged buses were towed away late in the afternoon.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
