Elderly Farmer Fatally Struck by Speeding Tractor in Hazaribag
A tragic road accident claimed the life of an elderly farmer in Hazaribag district on Friday morning. The incident has sparked local outrage and prompted a police investigation into the hit-and-run case.
Details of the Fatal Collision
The victim, identified as Vasudev Mahto (65) from Pakrar village under Katkamdag block, was on his way to Hazaribag town to sell vegetables when the accident occurred. According to local police reports, a speeding tractor rammed into Mahto's motorcycle near the Luta Railway Overbridge under Katkamdag police station limits around 6 am.
The impact was so severe that Vasudev Mahto died on the spot, while the tractor driver immediately fled the scene, abandoning the vehicle. The location of the accident, near a busy overbridge, highlights concerns about road safety in the area.
Local Protests and Police Response
Following the incident, local residents quickly gathered at the site, blocking the road in protest. Their demands were clear:
- Immediate arrest of the fleeing tractor driver
- Adequate compensation for Vasudev Mahto's grieving family
- Improved road safety measures in the area
Pramod Kumar Rai, the officer-in-charge of Katkamdag police station, arrived at the scene to manage the situation. The protestors dispersed only after receiving assurances from government officials regarding their concerns.
Official Investigation Underway
Police have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the fatal accident. Officer Rai provided the following updates:
- The victim's body was transported to Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College and Hospital in Hazaribag for postmortem examination before being handed over to relatives
- Police have seized the abandoned tractor as evidence
- An active search operation is underway to locate and apprehend the fleeing driver
In a significant development, an FIR was registered late Friday evening against unknown persons based on a formal complaint lodged by the deceased farmer's son, Nageshwar Prasad. The case marks the beginning of legal proceedings in this tragic incident.
The investigation continues as authorities work to piece together the exact circumstances of the collision and bring the responsible party to justice.
