Andhra Pradesh government bans night travel on ghat roads
13 Dec 2025

The Andhra Pradesh government has banned night travel on ghat roads in tribal and forest areas after a bus accident in Alluri Sitarama Raju district.

The ban, announced by Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, aims to prevent further accidents during the winter season when heavy fog is common.

It affects private long-distance buses going to northern Telangana and Maharashtra, as well as routes to hilly areas like Tirumala and along the Kadapa-Rayachoti stretch.

Bus accident prompts government action
Accident aftermath

The decision comes after a tragic bus accident on Friday morning. A private bus with 37 people, mostly pilgrims, lost control and rolled off a ghat road amid thick winter fog.

Preliminary assessments identified dense fog, sharp bends, and poor visibility as key factors in the accident.

In light of this incident, the government has ordered strict enforcement of night travel restrictions on ghat roads across agency areas.

Government measures to enhance road safety
Safety measures

The ban applies to all types of vehicles during fog-prone hours.

Officials have been directed to ensure no vehicle movement at night when visibility is low.

The home department has also ordered the identification of accident-prone stretches and the installation of warning signboards.

Only experienced and specially licensed drivers are allowed on hill roads during this period.

Government announces compensation for accident victims
Victim compensation

The government has also announced ex-gratia compensation for the families of those who lost their lives in the accident.

Each family will get ₹7 lakh (₹5 lakh from the state and ₹ 2 lakh from the Centre). Seriously injured passengers will receive ₹2 lakh while those with minor injuries will get ₹50,000.

Home Minister Anitha reiterated that "no loss of life should occur due to negligence or risky travel conditions."