Kochi: Panic erupted in Tripunithura on Monday afternoon when a bus collided with a crane, leaving around 20 passengers injured and traffic at a standstill for nearly an hour. The accident took place near Tripunithura Sanskrit College at around 2.45 pm, as the bus was heading to Ernakulam via Eroor. 

According to Hill Palace police, the accident happened when the crane suddenly entered the main road from a byroad and its long arm struck the bus on the front-left side. The impact caused the crane’s arm to get jammed into the bus body, trapping parts of the vehicle. 

Rescue teams from the fire force and police responded swiftly, carrying out operations to safely extricate passengers and secure the vehicles. The injured, most of whom sustained minor injuries, were immediately taken to a private hospital for treatment.

 “Around 20 passengers were hurt, but none of the injuries are critical. One person has a suspected fracture on the arm and has been admitted for further treatment,” said the police. 

The crash caused a severe traffic block for nearly an hour, with vehicles stranded on the busy road. The fire force later shifted both the crane and the bus to the roadside, allowing traffic to resume. 

Police have stated that a case will be registered after taking statements from the drivers of both vehicles, passengers, and local residents who witnessed the accident. Authorities are also investigating the circumstances that led the crane to enter the main road unexpectedly.