KOTA — At least eight people lost their lives early Saturday when a passenger vehicle veered off a major highway in the western region of India and crashed into a roadside drainage ditch.
The tragic accident took place along a prominent expressway connecting the national capital to the financial hub, specifically in the vicinity of Kota. The minibus was transporting a large group of relatives who had set out from Bhopal earlier.
According to local authorities, the passengers were on a pilgrimage journey heading toward a revered temple destination when the driver lost control of the vehicle. The sudden plunge into the deep drain trapped many occupants inside as water and thick mud filled the compartment.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene following distress calls from travelers on the highway. However, rescue operations proved exceptionally difficult due to the challenging terrain, stagnant water, and heavy mud surrounding the wreckage.
Medical teams pulled multiple survivors from the site and transferred them swiftly to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment. Officials confirmed that eight victims succumbed to their injuries at the scene or shortly after arrival.
Law enforcement agencies and disaster response teams have launched an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the crash. Investigators are examining whether driver fatigue, poor visibility, or mechanical failure played a role in the disaster.
The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, known for high-speed travel across several states, has seen various safety initiatives in recent years, yet nighttime driving hazards continue to pose serious risks. Local administration officials have expressed condolences to the bereaved family and are coordinating efforts to return the recovered victims to their relatives in Bhopal.
Reporting based on coverage first published by The Times of India. Read the original report at The Times of India.
