Inaugural Journey Jinxed: Brand New KSRTC Sleeper Bus Crashes Before First Passenger Ride

A highly anticipated moment for Kerala's public transport system has been marred by an unfortunate incident, as a brand-new KSRTC Swift AC sleeper bus met with a significant accident during its delivery journey. The state-of-the-art vehicle, which was en route from Bengaluru to Thiruvananthapuram, crashed near Thiruvallam on the Thiruvananthapuram bypass, sustaining considerable damage to its front section.

This particular bus was the first of its kind, a premium AC sleeper model intended to revolutionize long-distance travel under the KSRTC Swift service.

Valued at an impressive Rs 85 lakh, it was set to be inducted into service shortly, promising enhanced comfort and convenience for passengers on inter-state routes.

The incident occurred as the bus was nearing its destination, just shy of its grand introduction. According to initial reports, the vehicle collided with a culvert or a wall along the bypass.

Fortunately, the driver, who was solely responsible for delivering the bus, escaped the crash without any injuries, a testament to what could have been a far more serious mishap.

The damage, however, is substantial, affecting the front chassis and bodywork of the luxurious sleeper coach. This untimely accident presents a setback for KSRTC Swift, as they now face repairs and delays for a vehicle that was meant to be a flagship addition to their fleet.

Investigations are likely to follow to determine the exact cause of the collision, ensuring future delivery protocols are reviewed.

Despite this unfortunate start, KSRTC's commitment to upgrading its services remains strong. The incident, while disappointing, is a reminder of the inherent risks involved in road transport, even for vehicles yet to carry their first official passenger.