Tragic Highway Accident in Bantwal Claims One Life, Leaves Multiple Injured
A devastating road accident at Kadegoli junction in Bantwal taluk on Sunday resulted in the tragic death of a woman and left several others, including children, with injuries. The incident occurred on the busy Mangaluru–Bengaluru national highway, casting a shadow over the local community.
Details of the Fatal Collision
According to a formal complaint lodged with the Bantwal traffic police, the victims were traveling in an autorickshaw driven by Hema Prakash. The group, which included complainant Vedavathi, her sister Vishalakshi, daughter Shrika R Kottari, and son Danvith, was en route to attend Shivaratri puja in Kalladka. As they approached Kadegoli junction within Pudu village limits, a scooter rider identified as Antony Mark Rodrigues allegedly operated his vehicle negligently, leading to a head-on collision with the autorickshaw.
The impact of the crash caused the autorickshaw to lose control, subsequently striking another parked autorickshaw on the left side of the highway before overturning. Bystanders and members of the public quickly gathered at the scene to rescue the trapped passengers and arrange for urgent medical assistance.
Injuries and Fatal Outcome
The collision resulted in severe injuries among the occupants. Vedavathi sustained contusion and abrasion injuries to her right neck and left leg. Her sister, Vishalakshi, suffered critical head injuries that left her unable to speak. Hema Prakash experienced contusion injuries to both legs and an abrasion on his left hand, while the children sustained minor abrasions.
All injured individuals were promptly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Vedavathi and Hema Prakash were admitted as inpatients due to the severity of their injuries, and the children received outpatient care. Tragically, Vishalakshi, who had endured the most severe head trauma, was examined by medical professionals and declared dead at the hospital.
Legal Action and Police Investigation
In response to the incident, the Bantwal traffic police have registered a case under sections 281, 125(a), and 106 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The investigation is ongoing, with authorities focusing on the alleged negligence of the scooter rider, Antony Mark Rodrigues, as a key factor in the accident. This legal step underscores the seriousness of the event and aims to ensure accountability for the loss of life and injuries sustained.
This accident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety on national highways, particularly in areas with high traffic density like Bantwal taluk. It serves as a somber reminder of the potential consequences of negligent driving and the importance of adhering to traffic regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
