Eight Pilgrims Killed, 43 Injured in Uttar Pradesh Road Accident
Eight people, including two minors, died and 43 others were injured after a truck crashed into a tractor-trolley carrying pilgrims in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, early Monday morning. The victims, travelling from Kasganj to Rajasthan, were hit from behind, causing their vehicle to overturn. The state government has announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. The truck involved has been impounded by police.
Unpacked:
The primary cause was a speeding tanker that collided with the tractor-trolley from behind, causing it to overturn and resulting in multiple casualties. Speeding is a leading cause of fatal road accidents in Uttar Pradesh, especially on highways where such vehicles operate at high speeds.
Uttar Pradesh records over 22,000 road deaths annually, the highest in India. Accidents involving overloaded tractor-trolleys are common, particularly during religious pilgrimages, as these vehicles are often used to transport large groups, increasing risk in case of collisions.
The UP government has established district-level road safety committees to review accident causes and implement preventive measures. Emphasis is on curbing speeding, improving emergency medical response, and regularly reviewing accident data to adapt safety strategies.
After the accident, rescue operations began quickly with police, ambulances, and local residents helping. Of the 45 injured, ten with serious injuries were referred to Aligarh Medical College, ten to the district hospital, and 23 to a private facility. At least three remain in critical condition.