In a tragic incident in Bengaluru, a Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus driver, Kiran Kumar, suffered a fatal heart attack while driving his bus on November 6, 2024. The incident, reported by NDTV, unfolded at around 11 a.m. when the 40-year-old driver was completing his last route for the day from Nelamangala to Dasanapura. Kumar had just begun the journey when he experienced a sudden heart attack, leading to a dramatic and distressing situation onboard.

Footage from the bus’s CCTV cameras captured the moment Kumar leaned forward and collapsed to his left as he was struck by the heart attack. With no one immediately in control, the bus grazed another BMTC vehicle on the route. Witnessing the situation, the bus conductor, Obalesh, acted swiftly and decisively. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Obalesh took control of the bus, steering it to a safe stop, which averted any further accidents and safeguarded the lives of all passengers onboard.

After safely halting the vehicle, Obalesh prioritized getting help for the driver. He promptly arranged for Kumar to be transported to a nearby hospital, where the doctors sadly declared Kumar dead. According to the publication, the BMTC later issued a public statement expressing deep sorrow over the sudden loss of Kiran Kumar. In their message, BMTC officials shared, “It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely demise of Kiran Kumar, a driver from Depot 40, who passed away due to a sudden heart attack on November 6. The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) expresses its deepest condolences to the family of Kiran Kumar. The corporation prays for the peace of his soul.”

The tragic incident underscored the risks that public service drivers sometimes face due to demanding schedules and rigorous work conditions. Kumar, a dedicated employee stationed at Depot 40, was performing his duties when the unforeseen medical emergency claimed his life. BMTC officials and senior staff members responded swiftly to the unfortunate news, visiting Kumar’s family to provide support and comfort in their time of loss. In addition to offering condolences, BMTC has pledged financial assistance to Kumar’s family in recognition of his years of service.

The loss of Kumar, who was well-regarded among his peers and passengers, has left a mark on the BMTC community. Many drivers, conductors, and other staff have expressed their grief and solidarity with Kumar’s family. The conductor’s quick-thinking actions not only helped avert a potential accident but also highlighted the critical role that conductors play in maintaining safety on BMTC buses.

Senior BMTC officials commended Obalesh’s courageous and responsible response, noting that his swift intervention potentially saved lives. They also emphasized that the corporation is prioritizing the welfare of Kumar’s family and has initiated measures to support them through this difficult period.

The tragic incident has prompted renewed discussions about the health and working conditions of BMTC drivers. Given the physical and mental demands of the job, some have called for regular health check-ups and wellness programs to help prevent similar incidents in the future. BMTC has taken note of these concerns, with senior officials suggesting that they may explore options to better support the health and well-being of their drivers.

The BMTC’s public statement concluded with a heartfelt message of condolence, reaffirming their commitment to Kumar’s family and the community of BMTC employees, who continue to serve the city’s commuters every day.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Yash Kamble/MSM)