Driver Arrested After Fatal Hit-and-Run on Under-Construction Ganga Expressway in Rae Bareli
In a tragic incident that has shocked the community, police in Rae Bareli have arrested a driver after four women were run over by a car on the under-construction Ganga Expressway. The arrest came just a day after the fatal accident, with authorities moving swiftly to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Details of the Fatal Accident
The accident occurred on Sunday evening near Chuli village in Rae Bareli. According to police reports, a speeding car struck a group of women who were returning home on foot after attending a community feast. The impact was devastating, resulting in immediate fatalities.
The victims have been identified as Aasma (18), Himanshi (22), Shalini (20), and Rashmi Yadav (33). All four women died on the spot, while three others sustained injuries in the collision. The incident has left the local community in mourning, with many calling for stricter safety measures on construction sites.
Arrest and Investigation
Police arrested the driver, Vikas Mishra (35), on Monday night. Mishra, a resident of Kaushambi, has been charged with culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Authorities traced him through investigative efforts, leading to his apprehension.
ASP Sanjeev Sinha of Rae Bareli provided details on the arrest, stating that Mishra runs a car workshop and is also associated with an insurance company as a surveyor. This background has raised questions about his driving experience and responsibility on the road.
Driver's Account of the Incident
During interrogation, Vikas Mishra offered an explanation for the tragic event. He claimed that he was traveling from Prayagraj to Lucknow via a national highway when he mistakenly followed Google Maps directions and entered the under-construction Ganga Expressway.
Upon realizing his error, Mishra allegedly attempted to reverse the car. However, due to darkness and poor visibility on the unlit construction site, he failed to notice the women standing on the road. This led to the fatal accident, as per his statement to police.
Police Response and Legal Action
Police have registered a case based on the evidence and statements collected. The charge of culpable homicide not amounting to murder indicates that authorities believe the driver's actions were negligent but not premeditated. The investigation is ongoing, with police examining all aspects of the case, including:
- The condition of the construction site and its safety protocols
- The accuracy of navigation app directions in the area
- Mishra's driving history and any prior incidents
This incident highlights critical issues surrounding road safety on construction projects and the reliance on digital navigation tools. As the legal process unfolds, the community awaits justice for the victims and their families.
