Tragic Auto-Truck Collision Claims Lives of Two Students in Kanpur Dehat
A devastating road accident in Kanpur Dehat on Friday resulted in the deaths of two students and left three others, including the auto driver, with serious injuries. The incident occurred when an auto-rickshaw transporting students to an examination center collided with a truck near Kausam village in the Gajner area.
Details of the Fatal Accident
The students, all enrolled at Government Inter College in Raniya, had hired the auto to travel to BMS Inter College in Katethi, Gajner, for their UP Board practical examinations. According to preliminary reports, the collision happened at a blind turn where visibility was obstructed by encroachments. The truck driver reportedly failed to see the approaching auto, leading to a direct impact that caused the auto to overturn.
The deceased have been identified as Ritu, a 17-year-old intermediate student from Mahmau village, and Khushi, a 16-year-old native of Devpur Sadh Kanpur who was residing in Shivaji Nagar. Khushi was referred to a hospital in Kanpur but succumbed to her injuries. The injured include Deeksha, 16, from Raniya; Abhay Kumar, 17; and the auto driver, Manoj Kumar, from Kisarwal village. They were initially taken to a Community Health Center (CHC) before being transferred to the district hospital for further treatment.
Police Response and Investigation
Local authorities acted swiftly following the accident. Police took the truck driver into custody and seized the vehicle. Gajner police inspector Janardan Pratap Singh confirmed that all the students involved were UP Board examinees, specifically heading to appear for their Chemistry practicals. He stated that a formal case would be registered based on a complaint.
Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Rajesh Pandey provided further details, noting that the two minor girls died on the spot. "Other injured are being treated. Further action is being taken in the matter," he said. The police also managed to control a tense situation where angered locals attempted to block the road in protest of the incident.
Broader Implications and Safety Concerns
This tragic event highlights critical road safety issues, particularly around blind turns and encroachments that compromise visibility. It also underscores the risks faced by students traveling to examination centers, a routine yet potentially hazardous activity. The community's outrage reflects growing concerns over such preventable accidents.
As investigations continue, authorities are focusing on ensuring accountability and preventing similar incidents in the future. The loss of young lives has cast a shadow over the academic pursuits of these students, reminding us of the urgent need for improved traffic management and safety measures in educational zones.
