This is the shocking moment a bus is launched into the air after its axle and wheels come loose in India.

Authorities reported that the collision was triggered by a speeding SUV in Pulamon, Kottarakkara, Kerala, on November 18.

Footage shows the clash of the two vehicles, with the bus's rear tyres detaching after the impact.

Witnesses say the SUV, travelling from Punalur, lost control and crashed into the back of the bus near the diesel tank.

Both vehicles stopped immediately after the crash, with no serious injuries reported.

The Kottarakkara Police have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and assess the damage.

Traffic was briefly disrupted in the area but resumed after the vehicles were cleared from the road.

The collision severely damaged the SUV's front and right side. It was reported that medical students in the SUV suffered minor injuries.

The KSRTC bus involved in the crash was based at the Kottarakkara depot. Allegations of poor maintenance were made after the bus's wheels detached.

Transport Minister KB Ganesh Kumar has ordered an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

India has one of the highest rates of road accidents in the world, with thousands of fatalities and injuries reported each year.

The poor track record is blamed on unsafe road conditions, reckless driving, inadequate enforcement of traffic laws, and a lack of awareness about road safety.