A harrowing incident in Kurla, Mumbai, unfolded on Monday evening when a BEST electric bus veered out of control, resulting in a tragic accident that claimed seven lives. The aftermath, however, showcased remarkable courage and swift action that prevented a potential lynching. At the heart of this story is Sanjay More, the BEST bus driver, who found himself the target of an enraged mob following the devastating crash.
The scene was chaotic. Seven people lay dead, victims of a runaway electric bus on a busy SG Barve Road. The outpouring of anger and grief was palpable. Yet, amidst the chaos, the actions of two individuals stood out: Ashif Hussain, a 30-year-old lawyer residing near the accident site, and several quick-thinking police officers.
Ashif Hussain recounts his experience: “I heard a tremendous noise and rushed outside. I saw two policemen injured in their vehicle.” Without hesitation, he sprang into action, extracting the wounded officers and transporting them to a nearby hospital. Returning to the scene, he saw the horrific aftermath of the crash and a terrifying scene unfolding – a mob was assaulting Sanjay More, the distraught bus driver.
“The mob was furious,” Hussain explained to PTI. “They were attacking the driver. I intervened, pleading with them to stop. I took a few blows myself, but with the assistance of the police, we managed to get the driver to safety.” The situation was critical; the mob’s fury threatened to turn deadly. Hussain’s bravery, along with the intervention of the police, undoubtedly prevented a tragic escalation of the already devastating event. The bus conductor, equally terrified, had hidden himself in a nearby dentist’s clinic to evade the mob’s wrath. Hussain provided him with fresh clothing and escorted him to the Kurla police station on his motorbike, offering vital protection and a safe passage.
According to a senior police official, “The mob was uncontrollable. If it weren’t for our timely arrival and the assistance of local residents, the driver and conductor would have certainly suffered serious consequences, or worse.” The incident highlights the raw emotions that can surge following such a devastating tragedy, but also the remarkable human capacity for compassion and intervention.
The e-bus, part of the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking, crashed around 9:30 pm on Monday. Police investigations revealed that Mr. More lacked sufficient experience driving electric vehicles. He had completed only a ten-day training course before operating the bus. This tragic accident underscores the need for comprehensive and extensive training programs for drivers of electric vehicles, highlighting the safety implications for both drivers and the public.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of both road safety and community responsibility. The bravery shown by Ashif Hussain and the police officers prevented a further tragedy, highlighting the significance of timely intervention in times of crisis. The investigation into the accident is ongoing, but the actions of these individuals prevented a double tragedy on a night already marked by immense loss.
