Complete Chronology of the Tourist Bus Accident on the Malang Toll Road, Truck Reversal as the Trigger

Kapanlagi.com - A heartbreaking accident occurred on the Pandaan-Malang Toll Road on Monday afternoon, December 23, 2024, around 15:40 WIB. This tragic incident involved a tourist bus carrying a group of students from Bogor and a truck that experienced technical issues while climbing. As a result of the accident, four lives were lost, including the bus driver, while dozens of other passengers sustained injuries.

According to Netty Renova, the President Director of PT Jasamarga Pandaan Malang, the evacuation process was carried out quickly after the incident. Officers immediately diverted traffic to alternative routes to facilitate handling at the scene.

The Malang Police Chief, AKBP Putu Kholis Aryana, explained that the accident began when the truck, unable to climb, was forced to stop on the shoulder of the road. The truck then reversed and collided with the bus that was traveling at high speed from behind, causing a very severe impact.

Here is the complete news:

1. Chronology of the Accident on the Pandaan-Malang Toll Road

A tragic accident occurred at Kilometer 77+200 towards Malang, where the road ascends and sharply turns left, creating a dangerous situation.

According to the Malang Police Chief, AKBP Putu Kholis, a livestock feed truck was forced to stop on the shoulder of the road because it could not continue up the hill, but unfortunately, the wheel chock used did not function properly.

Without warning, the truck rolled back uncontrollably and collided with a bus that was speeding from behind. The results of the crime scene investigation (TKP) showed severe damage to the front right side of the bus and the left side of the truck, illustrating the magnitude of the collision that occurred.

2. Victim Identification and Quick Evacuation by Officers

The tragic accident claimed the lives of four people, including the bus driver who was transporting a group of students from SMP IT Darul Qur'an Mulia Putri, Bogor. Two of the victims were bus crew members, while one was a passenger.

"Initially, we found one fatality, but after the evacuation carried out by the team, the total became four, including the bus driver," said AKBP Putu Kholis Aryana, Head of the Malang Police, as reported by ANTARA on Monday (23/12/2024).

All deceased victims have been taken to RSUD Dr. Saiful Anwar, Malang, while 37 injured victims are receiving treatment at several hospitals, including RSUD Lawang and RS Prima Husada.

3. Purpose of the Trip and Condition of the Student Group Bus

A tragic bus that was heading towards Kampung Inggris in Kediri met with an accident after previously transporting a group of tourists to enjoy the beauty of Mount Bromo.

The Malang Police Chief revealed that a thorough investigation regarding the travel route and the condition of the bus is still ongoing. Severe damage is evident in the front of the bus, particularly in the cockpit area which was crushed due to the hard impact.

The evacuation process took quite a long time, considering the bus was stuck across the road and blocking the busy toll route.

4. Investigation into the Cause of the Accident

The police are currently delving deeper into the cause of the incident involving the truck that was unable to climb, with initial suspicions pointing towards overloading or possible issues with the handbrake. The Malang Police Chief, Putu, explained,

"The truck came to a stop on the shoulder of the road and rolled back uncontrollably; we are still investigating whether the handbrake failed through a forensic examination of the scene."

Additionally, the police are conducting a thorough examination of the physical condition and health of the truck and bus drivers, including alcohol and drug tests to ensure safety on the road.

5. Appeal and Prevention Steps for Similar Accidents

PT Jasamarga Pandaan-Malang invites all road users to always ensure that their vehicles are in prime condition before traversing steep and sharp-turning routes.

In an effort to maintain safety, they apologize for any inconvenience that may occur and remind everyone of the importance of vigilance and the use of rest areas for those who feel tired.

Additionally, the police also emphasize to drivers of large vehicles to check their brakes and safety systems to ensure they function properly when passing through this challenging toll road.

6. 1. What is the main cause of this accident?

This shocking accident is believed to have been caused by a truck losing power while climbing, causing it to roll back uncontrollably and collide with the bus behind it. This incident adds to the list of tragic events on the road, where a moment of negligence can lead to an unexpected disaster.

7. 2. How many victims were there in this accident?

In a tragic accident, four lives were lost, including the unfortunate bus driver, while 37 other passengers were forced to endure the pain of their injuries.

8. 3. Was the bus in roadworthy condition?

A thorough investigation is still underway to uncover the technical condition of the bus prior to the accident. The investigation team is working to find important details that can provide a clearer picture of the factors influencing this incident.

9. 4. What should drivers do when traversing an uphill road?

Before embarking on your journey on the road, make sure your vehicle is battle-ready! Check the engine condition to keep it in top shape, use low gear when going uphill, and don’t forget to check the braking system to ensure your trip is safe and comfortable. Prepare everything well, and enjoy your journey!

10. 5. Has the toll road been reopened?

The toll road has now officially reopened, with the implementation of a traffic diversion system through the Purwodadi Toll Gate, to ensure smooth traffic for drivers.

(kpl/srr)