Tragic Truck Accident Claims Student's Life in Southeast Delhi
A devastating road accident in the early hours of Friday resulted in the death of a 19-year-old student and left another critically injured when a speeding truck collided with their scooty near the Modi Mill Flyover on Mathura Road in southeast Delhi.
Police Response and Accident Details
Delhi Police received an emergency call around midnight reporting an unconscious individual lying on the Sarita Vihar-bound carriageway. A response team from the New Friends Colony police station immediately rushed to the scene and determined that the collision occurred between 12am and 1am.
Investigations revealed that a scooty with a Delhi registration number was struck by a truck bearing a Rajasthan license plate that was traveling toward Badarpur. The truck, heavily loaded with grocery items, was reportedly moving at high speed on its journey from Badli to Nagpur, according to statements from a senior police officer.
"No cleaner or helper was present in the vehicle at the time of the incident," the officer further clarified during the preliminary investigation.
Victims and Driver Information
The deceased has been identified as Manav, a 19-year-old student who resided in Sarai Julena. The injured victim, Mohammad Saad (21), also a student from Gaffar Manzil in Jamia Nagar, remains in critical condition at a medical facility. Police confirmed that the scooty involved in the accident was registered under the name of Saad's father.
Authorities have detained the accused truck driver, identified as Jahul (32), a resident of Nuh in Haryana. Jahul has been employed by truck owner Rashid for approximately two years. The driver has asserted that he possesses a valid driving license and that the vehicle is properly insured, though police are currently verifying both documents.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
A specialized crime team thoroughly inspected the accident site, collecting crucial evidence to reconstruct the events. Notably, no helmets were discovered at the location, raising additional safety concerns about the victims' protective gear at the time of impact.
This tragic incident highlights broader safety issues surrounding heavy vehicle movement in Delhi. Recent police data reveals alarming trends in truck-related accidents throughout the city.
Rising Truck Accident Statistics in Delhi
According to Delhi Police records from last year, heavy vehicles were involved in 82 fatal crashes during the first seven months, resulting in 85 deaths and 187 injuries. This represents a concerning pattern when compared to the same period in the previous year, which saw 87 fatal accidents claiming 89 lives.
Traffic violations by heavy vehicles have also surged dramatically, with a 46% increase in challans issued—jumping from 17,776 to 26,025. This spike is primarily attributed to cases of improper parking and no-entry violations, underscoring persistent safety challenges regarding truck operations on urban roads.
Police have registered a formal case and continue their investigation to determine the exact sequence of events leading to this fatal collision. The probe aims to establish accountability and identify potential preventive measures to enhance road safety in the capital region.
