PUNE, India — A tragic accident on a busy highway has claimed the lives of eight individuals and left many others injured after a truck lost control and collided with multiple vehicles. The catastrophic event unfolded late Thursday afternoon on the Pune-Bengaluru highway, near the Bhumkar Bridge-Navale Bridge area, as local authorities reported.
According to police officials, the incident occurred around 5:45 p.m. when a trailer truck failed to brake while navigating a steep decline. The truck struck at least 13 vehicles, resulting in severe destruction. Eyewitness accounts described the harrowing scene as a car became wedged between the runaway truck and another vehicle, eventually erupting in flames.
Tragically, the five occupants of the engulfed vehicle—a family that included two men, two women, and a three-year-old girl—were confirmed among the fatalities. The truck driver and his assistant also reportedly lost their lives in the incident.
Footage shared by the local government showed the extensive damage, with first responders quickly arriving at the scene to manage the aftermath. The Pune Municipal Corporation and fire department mobilized resources, working diligently to provide aid and manage the growing fire.
Local Deputy Police Commissioner Sambhaji Kadam emphasized the need for swift action, confirming that more than 20 individuals were transported to hospitals for treatment following the collision. “The situation was chaotic, with a small car crushed between two trucks. The sheer force of the impact led to the tragic loss of life,” he stated.
A major challenge for rescue teams arose from the nature of the fire; the vehicle involved was fueled by compressed natural gas, contributing to intense flames. Fire Department Chief Devendra Potphode noted that their response team arrived on site within five minutes of receiving emergency calls, but the severity of the blaze complicated efforts to manage it. He described the scene, stating that two women and a child were found in the backseat, while two men were discovered in the front.
Pune police officials expressed their condolences via social media, offering sympathy to the families affected by the disaster. Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar underscored the impact of the tragedy, noting, “The horrific nature of this incident has left a deep sorrow in our community.”
The police department continued to assist local authorities in the aftermath, providing support and aiding in ongoing investigations. As families mourn their losses, the community has come together to reflect on the need for safety measures on the region’s highways, particularly on stretches known for hazardous conditions.