A tragic bus accident claimed nine lives on the spot early Friday, December 12, 2025. Thirty-five tourists from Chittoor district were traveling through Papikonda National Park near Tulasipaka village in Alluri Sitarama Raju district. Around 4 a.m., the private travel bus hit an obstacle in the forest. Poor visibility is believed to be the cause. Three passengers survived but suffered severe injuries. The group was on their way from Araku Valley and planned to reach Bhadradri on Friday morning. The Superintendent of Police for Alluri Sitarama Raju district confirmed the deaths and said, "Nine tourists have died on the spot. The rescue operation is on." Police from Maredumilli and Chintoor are leading the rescue efforts.