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

Quick-thinking conductor Obalesh immediately took control of the situation, stopped the bus safely and prevented any possible accidents. He then took Kumar to Vice Magnus Hospital, where doctors later confirmed his death.

The incident occurred around 11:00 during one of the bus’s trips of the day. CCTV footage from the bus reportedly shows the moments when Kumar collapsed behind the wheel and the vehicle crashed into a nearby stationary BMTC bus.

A Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (#BMTC) bus driver died #Heart attack while driving from there #Nelamangala with #Yeshwantpur On November 6.

The deceased driver, 30 years old, was carrying 50 passengers on board. The vehicle was near Yeshwantpur #Bengaluru In that case… pic.twitter.com/WH7hYE9cNA

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) 6 November 2024

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In a statement, BMTC praised conductor Obalesh for his decisive action and noted: “On the said date, Mr. Kiran Kumar was driving vehicle number KA 57 F-4007 on route 256 M/1 during his last journey from Nelamangala to Dasanapura. Mr. Kumar tragically suffered a heart attack while on duty and collapsed behind the wheel. In a quick-thinking and courageous move, the bus conductor, Mr. Obalesh (Token No. 21448), immediately brought the vehicle to a safe stop, ensuring the safety of all passengers and preventing any accident.”

BMTC has assured that Kumar’s family will receive full service benefits and death and retirement benefits totaling Rs 10 lakh, according to a report in Indian Express.

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