Heart skips a beat, hero conductor saves the day: BMTC driver's collapse averts Bengaluru bus crash

Footage shot by a bus surveillance camera captured the moment Karn collapsed, forcing his vehicle lightly to collide with another BMTC before continuing on the trip.

By Gaurav Santosh Updated: Nov 7, 2024, 17:01 IST

BENGALURU, India, Nov. 7, 2024 — The tragic incident unfolded on Monday when a Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation, BMTC, bus driver suffered a fatal heart attack while the quick actions of the conductor prevented a major accident.

Karn, 39, who drives a bus from BMTC Depot 40, was driving from Nelamangala to Yeshwanthpur. He suddenly suffered severe chest pains and fell unconscious. Footage shot by a bus surveillance camera captured the moment Karn collapsed, forcing his vehicle lightly to collide with another BMTC before continuing on the trip.

A health study in September only unveiled alarming statistics about health risks faced by the BMTC staff. Conducted in association with the state-run Jaidev Cardiovascular Sciences Institute, the study measured 7,635 BMTC staff members falling in the age group of 45 to 60 years. The study said that more than 40% of the employees are on the risk of heart disease. The much crucial prevalence is already noticed among 5.5% workers. Diabetic, hypertension, and obesity rates were also high.

"The constant driving, overtimes, and night shifts inure high levels of stress among our drivers," said C.N. Manjunath, the director of the Jaidev Cardiovascular Sciences Institute. "These factors leave less time for exercising, which might lead to unhealthy eating habits, hence increasing the heart-related issues." The organisation plans to screen an additional 2,500 employees in the coming months.

It underlines the point that healthy intervention and lifestyle changes are required among the employees of BMTC as these people are suffering from a high percentage of cardiovascular diseases. BMTC has assured that health monitoring along with support systems will ensure healthy conditions for its work force.

Following the tragic loss of Karn, the incident acts as an eye opener in regard to the health issues that people face while moving with public transport, and it does bring into light the importance of ready and prepared staff to respond effectively to emergencies to ensure the safety of passengers and the community.

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