Daijiworld Media Network - Hyderabad

Hyderabad, Oct 26: Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar has issued a stern warning against drunk driving, calling offenders “terrorists” following a devastating bus fire in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool that claimed 20 lives.

“Drunk drivers are terrorists. Their actions are nothing short of acts of terror on our roads,” Sajjanar said on X, emphasizing the preventable nature of the Kurnool incident. CCTV footage revealed that biker B. Shiva Shankar, under the influence of alcohol, refueled his motorcycle at 2:24 a.m. before losing control and colliding at 2:39 a.m., triggering a fire that killed bus passengers within seconds.

The commissioner underlined Hyderabad Police’s zero-tolerance policy: “Every single person caught driving under the influence will face the full force of law. There will be no leniency, no exceptions, and no mercy for those who endanger innocent lives.”

Preliminary investigation indicates that Shiva Shankar, along with pillion rider Erri Swamy, was returning from dinner and drinks at a dhaba. Both were reportedly intoxicated. Shiva lost control of his bike, hit a divider, and died instantly. The subsequent collision with a bus led to the fuel tank igniting, resulting in the deaths of 19 bus passengers.

Sajjanar stressed that drunk driving is not a mere mistake but a criminal act capable of destroying lives and families. “It is a crime that shatters lives and must be punished accordingly,” he said, urging society to recognize the severity of drunk driving and its catastrophic consequences.