Chennai: An episode of road rage near Thirumangalam flyover escalated into a physical altercation between a biker and private bus staff, resulting in damage to the vehicle and passengers getting hassled on Tuesday. The Thirumangalam police have summoned two men, including a software engineer, for further inquiry.The incident occurred when Manikandan from Periyar Nagar, attempted to overtake a private bus while his wife and child rode pillion. The bus, which was en route from Koyambedu to Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh, and carried about 35 passengers, had come dangerously close to Manikandan’s bike. The biker dropped his wife and child nearby, followed the bus, and intercepted it near the Thirumangalam flyover.An argument ensued between Manikandan and the bus driver, identified as Hemanth Kumar. The situation turned violent as both men engaged in a physical altercation. During the heated exchange, another biker, Ernest from Ponniamman Medu, Madhavaram, joined the scuffle in support of Manikandan. Ernest flung his helmet at the windshield of the bus, shattering it. He also smashed the side windows and attacked the cleaner, Prabhakar Reddy. The altercation caused panic among passengers, though no injuries were reported. Thirumangalam police detained Manikandan and Ernest. The bus operator arranged another vehicle for the passengers to travel.Manikandan told the police inspector Deepak Kumar that Ernest was not an acquaince and that the confrontation with the bus staff was nearly resolved when Ernest intervened. The traffic investigation wing referred the matter to the Thirumangalam police station. The two men were let off after they gave a written undertaking. They have been asked to appear for further inquiry on Thursday. Police said legal action would be considered after completing the inquiry.
