Punjab: Two school children crushed to death by PRTC bus
Babushahi Bureau
Mansa (Punjab), October 18, 2025: While the nation celebrates the festivals of Dhanteras and Diwali, a heart-wrenching incident has been reported from Punjab’s Mansa district. Two young schoolchildren lost their lives after being run over by a speeding PRTC bus in village Laliawali on Saturday morning. The tragic accident has cast a shadow of grief over the entire village.
How the accident happened
According to information, the victims have been identified as Sonu (12) and Meena (7). The two children had left home for school when the accident took place.
- Hit while crossing the road: As they were crossing the road near their village, a speeding Punjab Roadways (PRTC) bus struck them. The impact was so severe that both children died on the spot.
Family in shock, allegations of driver negligence
The news of the children’s deaths plunged their families into deep grief, with relatives wailing inconsolably.
- Driver suspected to be intoxicated: The bereaved family alleged that government buses are often driven by contractual employees, some of whom operate under the influence of alcohol. They suspect that the bus driver may have been intoxicated at the time of the accident.
- Driver caught by locals: Eyewitnesses said that the driver attempted to flee after the accident but was caught by local residents on the spot.
Police investigation underway
Local police reached the scene soon after receiving the information. The bus has been seized, and a case has been registered against the driver. Police officials confirmed that the driver will undergo a medical examination to determine whether he was under the influence of alcohol.