Blueline claims first victim of ‘08

The killer buses had claimed over 120 lives last year

NEW DELHI: A speeding Blueline bus crushed a young man in east Delhi on Saturday, making him the first victim of the “killer” buses this year.

In 2007, the privately-owned buses whose operations have come under the scanner claimed the lives of more than 120 people.

Saturday’s accident took place around noon when a Blueline bus, plying on route No. 301 between Mayur Vihar Phase-III and Red Fort, crushed a man in his mid-20s near Kondli Bridge in Kalyanpuri area.

Police said the unidentified man came under the wheels of the speeding bus while crossing the road. He was taken to a nearby hospital where the doctors declared him dead.

The driver and the conductor of the bus fled from the scene, following which an infuriated mob stoned the bus and smashed its windowpanes.

“We have registered a case of rash and negligent driving against the driver and a search is underway to nab him,” a police official said.

The 4,000-strong Blueline bus fleet, which forms a crucial part of Delhi’s public transport system, has earned public ire for the recklessness of its drivers and owners but officials say they are helpless to check the menace.