A 40-year-old driver with Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), Kiran Kumar, suffered a fatal heart attack while driving his route 256 M/1 bus from Nelamangala to Dasanapura on Wednesday. Despite experiencing minor discomfort, Kumar continued driving until he suddenly collapsed, causing the bus to veer off course.


The quick-thinking conductor, Obalesh, immediately took control of the situation, bringing the bus to a safe stop and preventing any potential accidents. He then rushed Kumar to V P Magnus Hospital, where doctors later confirmed his death.


The incident occurred at around 11 a.m. during the bus's one of the trip of the day. CCTV footage from the bus reportedly shows the moments when Kumar collapsed at the wheel, leading the vehicle to brush against a stationary BMTC bus nearby.


 






 


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In a statement, BMTC praised conductor Obalesh for his decisive action, noting, “On the mentioned date, Mr. Kiran Kumar was operating vehicle number KA 57 F-4007 on route 256 M/1, during its final trip from Nelamangala to Dasanapura. While on duty, Mr. Kumar tragically suffered a heart attack and collapsed at the wheel. In a quick-thinking and courageous act, the bus conductor, Mr. Obalesh (Token No. 21448), immediately brought the vehicle to a safe halt, ensuring the safety of all passengers and preventing any accidents."


The BMTC has assured that Kumar’s family will receive full service benefits and a death-cum-retirement benefit totaling Rs 10 lakh, as per a report on Indian Express.


Kumar, a native of Hassan, leaves behind his wife and a five-year-old daughter.