Seven pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh lost their lives, and two others sustained injuries after a mini-bus they were traveling in collided with a truck in Madhya Pradesh’s Jabalpur district on Tuesday. The pilgrims were returning home after attending the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj when the tragic accident took place.
Accident Details
According to officials, the accident occurred on a four-lane highway near the Canal area of Mohla Bargi village, under Sihora police station limits. The truck, which was transporting marble powder from Jabalpur to Katni, lost control, veered into the opposite lane, and rammed into the mini-bus.
Upon receiving the emergency call, police rushed to the accident site and used a crane to remove the truck before rescuing the passengers trapped inside the mini-bus.
Police Statement
Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Suryakant Sharma provided details about the crash, stating, “A tempo traveller (mini-bus) carrying passengers from Andhra Pradesh was returning from Prayagraj when a truck lost control and moved into the opposite lane, colliding with the bus. Seven people died, while two others sustained injuries and were rushed for medical treatment.”
Authorities confirmed that the bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem, and the injured victims are receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Investigation and Government Response
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed grief over the tragedy and ordered an investigation into the incident. He assured that arrangements were being made to help the victims’ families return to Andhra Pradesh.
“I came to know about the unfortunate accident in Sihora, where a mini-bus heading towards Andhra Pradesh from Prayagraj met with an accident, resulting in the loss of seven lives. I pray for the departed souls and strength for their families. An inquiry has been ordered, and we are making arrangements for the families to return to their home state,” said the Chief Minister.
Officials noted that despite the highway being a four-lane road with open space in the middle, the absence of a divider allowed the truck to cross into the opposite lane, leading to the fatal crash.
Authorities are currently in touch with the victims’ families, and further action will be taken once they arrive to claim the bodies. The police are also looking into the possible reasons behind the truck driver’s loss of control and will determine any necessary legal action.
Road Safety Concerns
The accident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety and highway infrastructure in India. The absence of dividers on busy highways has often been a contributing factor in severe accidents, raising questions about traffic regulations and road management.
As investigations continue, the tragic loss of lives serves as a reminder of the urgent need for stricter enforcement of road safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Sources By Agencies