Dozens burn alive after bus bursts into flames in deadly Indian motorway crash

The bus, which had 40 passengers on board as well as the driver and other staff, had been travelling between major cities Hyderabad and Bengaluru.

As flames erupted, 12 people managed to escape by climbing through the windows, many of whom had suffered burn injuries.

Authorities continued to carry out rescue and firefighting missions throughout the morning, however officials said it would be impossible to confirm the number of people involved until cooling efforts were complete.

Kurnool Police Superintendent Vikrant Patil told NDTV: "At around 3am, a volvo bus of Kaveri Travels was going from Hyderabad to Bengaluru.

"It hit a two-wheeler and it got stuck under a bus. That probably caused a spark and led to fire.

"The Forensic Laboratory (FSL) team is here and ascertaining the exact cause of the fire."

He added: "15 people have been rescued and admitted to the hospital. The fire is under control."

Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister, N Chandrababu Naidu, said: "I am shocked to learn about the devastating bus fire accident near Chinna Tekur village in Kurnool district.

"My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of those who have lost their loved ones.

"Government authorities will extend all possible support to the injured and affected families."

Dramatic images from the scene showed the bus as a burnt-out shell.

Fewer than three weeks ago, at least 20 people died in a similar incident.

A passenger bus in northern India caught fire due to a wiring fault.

As many as 50 people were on the vehicle travelling between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur in Rajasthan.

Some 19 bodies were recovered from the wreckage, and one other person succumbed to their injuries while en route to hospital.

In both crashes, the flames are believed to have spread too quickly for those on board to escape.