Ayodhya, India — A devastating road accident occurred at Lata Mangeshkar Chowk in Ayodhya, claiming the life of one individual and injuring at least five others after a high-speed dumper truck careened into multiple vehicles. Dr. Manish Shakya from Shri Ram Hospital, where the victims were initially treated, confirmed the casualties and noted the critical condition of several injured.
Eyewitness Raja Babu described the harrowing moment, “The dumper was uncontrollable and after hitting my car, it collided with several others. Fortunately, I managed to escape from my vehicle but others were not so lucky.” Babu, who sustained multiple injuries himself, recounted the truck running over pedestrians and damaging numerous vehicles in this bustling square.
Moreover, in a separate and equally tragic incident on the same day, four men lost their lives in a collision near Pararampur village, situated on the outskirts of Ayodhya. The deceased were traveling on two motorcycles returning from a local Holi celebration when they were struck head-on by an SUV driving at high speed. Deputy Superintendent of Police Piyush Pal stated that the impact was so forceful the motorcycles were dragged for nearly 100 meters, catching fire shortly after.
The SUV’s driver, identified as Bhaskar Upadhyay, attempted to flee the accident scene. However, he was apprehended following the accident after amidst chaotic scenes where frustrated villagers set the vehicle ablaze. Upadhyay, who also sustained injuries in the incident, has been arrested. Local authorities have sent the bodies of the deceased, identified as Ram Kewal, 50, Indrajeet, 32, Ram Sajivan, 42, and Jethu, 38, for autopsy, confirming the details of this tragic event.
These back-to-back incidents have cast a shadow over the community, particularly during the festive season meant for celebration, not mourning. Road safety has become a pressing concern due to the increasing frequency and severity of similar incidents. Traffic regulation and the enforcement of speed limits are being scrutinized as potential areas for immediate government intervention.
As the investigation continues, the public outcry is increasing, calling for stringent measures to enhance road safety and prevent future tragedies. Ayodhya police are currently reviewing traffic management systems, and discussions have been initiated at various levels to address the safety concerns that have arisen from these incidents.