A 34-year-old Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) driver who suffered a heart attack at the wheel steered his Kakinada-Visakhapatnam bus, with around 40 passengers on board, to the side of the road near Tuni on Thursday (October 8, 2026), parked it and collapsed. The driver, Jetti Siva, was declared dead on arrival at the hospital. APSRTC Chairman Konakalla Narayana Rao paid tribute to him on Friday (October 9, 2026).

In a statement, the chairman expressed deep sorrow over the incident and said Siva had shown exceptional presence of mind and a strong sense of responsibility by bringing the bus to a safe halt despite suffering a sudden medical emergency, and that this had averted a major accident.

Siva had been feeling some pain, and near Tuni it became severe. He pulled over, parked the bus and collapsed at the wheel. He was immediately taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead, APSRTC officials said.

Mr. Narayana Rao expressed his condolences to Siva’s family and assured them that APSRTC would stand by them during this difficult time. He said the corporation would take the necessary steps to extend help and support to the bereaved family under the applicable rules.

Siva’s commitment to passenger safety, even in his final moments, showed his dedication to duty and his spirit of service, and his actions would be an inspiration to every employee of APSRTC, Mr. Narayana Rao said.

The chairman said it was a matter of pride for the corporation and the government that drivers, conductors and other staff members discharged their duties with such dedication and commitment.

He added that APSRTC would always remember Siva’s selfless service, and that he would extend all possible support to the family on behalf of the corporation.