Mangaluru: A five year old UKG student was killed, and two other children were injured on Wednesday evening when a huge tree, uprooted by heavy rain and strong winds, crashed onto a moving school bus near Kalletti Daivasthana close to Barimaru in Bantwal in Mangaluru district of coastal Karnataka.
Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara expressed shock over the incident and said the government stands with the affected families. He conveyed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased child.
The deceased has been identified as five year old Chiranvi, daughter of Chandrashekhar from Perne.
According to officials, the bus belonged to Sri Rama Vidya Kendra, Kalladka, and was ferrying children home. It was travelling from Mani through Baranikere, Barimaru and Kalletti, on its way to Perne via Budoli, when the roadside tree suddenly gave way and fell on the vehicle.
Two other students were injured in the accident. Anvi, daughter of Ganesh Gowda and a resident of Peraje Sadikukku, suffered serious injuries and was rushed to a private hospital in Mangaluru, where she is under specialist care. Kshithi Rai from Perne is receiving treatment at a private hospital in Kalladka.
The falling tree also struck the nearby Kalletti temple, damaging the structure. The impact cut power supply and blocked vehicular movement in the area for several hours.
Parameshwara said he was “deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic incident in Bantwal, where a tree fell on a school bus during rains, claiming the life of young Chiranvi and leaving a couple of other children injured.”
He added that he had spoken to the Deputy Commissioner and directed the district administration to ensure appropriate compensation to the bereaved family and provide the best possible treatment to the injured children. He also said he had spoken to District In charge Minister J&K L G Khader and requested him to personally oversee the relief and support measures.
“My heartfelt condolences to the grieving family. I pray that the injured children recover swiftly and completely. In this hour of grief, the Government of Karnataka stands firmly with the affected families,” Parameshwara stated.
The tragedy has cast a pall of gloom over Perne and surrounding villages. In the aftermath, the public has urged authorities to prioritise the identification and removal of dangerous roadside trees to prevent similar accidents during the monsoon season.
Police and revenue officials visited the spot and have begun an inquiry into the incident.
(IANS)
