KKN Gurugram Desk | A major road accident occurred late Friday night on the Prayagraj-Mirzapur highway in Uttar Pradesh. A Bolero SUV, carrying devotees from Chhattisgarh to the Mahakumbh, collided head-on with a passenger bus, resulting in 10 fatalities and 19 injuries. The incident took place in the Meja police station area of Prayagraj around midnight.
Accident Details: A Devastating Collision
According to reports, a group of pilgrims from Chhattisgarh was traveling in a Bolero SUV towards the Sangam in Prayagraj for a holy bath at the Mahakumbh. At the same time, a bus carrying passengers who had already completed their pilgrimage was heading toward Mirzapur. The high-speed collision left the Bolero mangled, and all 10 occupants lost their lives on the spot.
The impact was so severe that nearby residents rushed to the scene after hearing the loud crash. Witnesses reported screams and chaos as they informed the police. Local authorities, along with emergency response teams, reached the spot and worked with locals to rescue the injured.
Casualties and Injuries: Rescue Operations Underway
The accident resulted in 10 deaths, while 19 people were injured, including passengers from the bus. The injured were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital.
The bodies of the deceased were sent for post-mortem examination at Swaroop Rani Medical Hospital in Prayagraj. Police have informed the families of the victims, all of whom are reported to be residents of Korba, Chhattisgarh.
Possible Cause of the Accident: Driver Fatigue Suspected
Preliminary investigations suggest that the Bolero driver may have dozed off while driving, leading to the high-speed collision. Authorities believe that drowsy driving during the late hours might have caused the vehicle to go out of control.
The police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Further details will be revealed once the inquiry is completed.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Expresses Grief
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic accident. He has extended condolences to the bereaved families and instructed officials to ensure proper medical care for the injured.
He also directed the district administration to speed up relief efforts and provide necessary assistance to the victims’ families.
Police Statement on the Incident
Speaking on the accident, DCP Vivek Chandra Yadav of Prayagraj’s Yamunanagar Division stated that most of the injured suffered minor injuries. Several victims were given first aid and later discharged.
Authorities are now working to provide full support to affected families and complete all necessary legal formalities.
The Ongoing Risk of Highway Accidents
This accident once again highlights the dangers of late-night driving and high-speed travel on highways. Every year, numerous lives are lost due to driver fatigue, reckless driving, and poor road conditions.
Authorities are urging drivers to remain cautious, especially during long-distance journeys at night. Passengers are also advised to choose experienced drivers and ensure adequate rest breaks to avoid such devastating accidents.
This heartbreaking tragedy serves as a grim reminder of road safety concerns in India. As authorities investigate the incident, the focus remains on supporting the victims’ families and ensuring such accidents are prevented in the future.