A devastating accident occurred in Jharkhand’s Khunti district late Thursday night, resulting in the tragic loss of seven lives. The incident unfolded on the Karra-Torpa main road, near the Jone-Ludru turn, when an 18-wheeler truck, traveling at high speed, ran over several people.
Details of the Incident
The accident took place at approximately 9:45 p.m. when a scooter rider lost control and fell into bushes near a culvert close to the Jone-Ludru turn. This prompted local residents, including women and children, to gather at the site to assist the rider. Unfortunately, a truck approaching from the Torpa side struck the group standing by the roadside.
Among the victims were four women and three children, identified as Pako Devi, Kasila Devi, Manhu Devi, Golu Kumar, Anjali Kumari, Tuti Kumari, and 12-year-old Saurabh Nayak. Khushbu Kumari, another resident, was injured and is receiving medical care at Khunti Sadar Hospital.
Response and Investigation
The accident site was quickly filled with chaos and cries for help. Local residents immediately alerted the police, who, along with community members, rushed the injured to Khunti Sadar Hospital. Despite efforts to save him, 12-year-old Saurabh Nayak succumbed to his injuries at around 11:15 p.m., raising the death toll to seven.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the truck driver, who fled the scene along with the truck’s helper, was under the influence of alcohol. The truck, identified by its registration number JH 02 AJ 1377, was reportedly speeding and driven recklessly.
Community and Official Reaction
The local community has expressed outrage over the incident, demanding stricter enforcement of traffic laws and measures to prevent such tragedies. The police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, focusing on the possibility of driver intoxication and negligence as contributing factors.
This tragic event has highlighted the ongoing issues of road safety and enforcement in the region, prompting calls for immediate action to prevent future occurrences.
Source: NDTV India
