A potentially catastrophic incident was averted on Pune’s Bavdhan bypass road on Wednesday afternoon when a school bus transporting around 30 to 40 students met with an accident. The bus, allegedly driven by an intoxicated driver, crashed into three motorcycles and a car parked on the roadside. The mishap occurred around 2:45 pm, triggering panic among residents and passersby. Fortunately, none of the children or other individuals sustained injuries. However, the episode has once again sparked serious concerns over the safety of students and the standards followed in school transportation services across the city.
Police officials said the bus belonged to a well-known local school and was on its regular route to drop children home. The driver, identified as 50-year-old Batta Vasant Rasal, reportedly lost control of the vehicle due to alcohol consumption. As the bus hit multiple parked vehicles, nearby residents were alarmed by the noise and the erratic movement of the bus. Several locals immediately followed the vehicle and managed to stop it a short distance away, preventing what could have been a far more serious accident involving the children onboard.
Eyewitnesses at the spot said the driver appeared visibly drunk and was unable to respond coherently when confronted by residents. This led to a tense atmosphere, with people expressing anger and concern over the risk posed to the children. The situation remained volatile until personnel from Loni Kalbhor police station arrived at the scene. The police took the driver into custody and ensured the safety of the students, who were later handed over to their guardians without any harm or injuries being reported.
A subsequent medical examination confirmed that the driver had consumed alcohol while on duty. Investigating officer Prashant Dhumal stated that the accused has been booked and arrested under relevant sections for drunk and rash driving, along with endangering the lives of children and the general public. Authorities said the case underscores the urgent need for stricter checks, regular medical screenings, and tighter supervision of school bus drivers to prevent such incidents and ensure the safety of young passengers.