Speeding Car Mows Down Pedestrians in Lucknow, Killing Child and Injuring Five
A horrific road accident unfolded on Thursday night in the bustling Banthra area of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, resulting in the tragic death of a young child and leaving five other individuals with serious injuries. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community, occurred near the Hanuman Temple on Kanpur Road, a frequently traveled arterial route connecting the two major cities.
Details of the Tragic Collision
According to police reports and eyewitness accounts, the calamity struck at approximately 8:30 PM when a high-speed car, traveling from Lucknow towards Kanpur, lost control. The vehicle first collided with a parked motorcycle before careening violently into a group of pedestrians walking along the roadside. The car continued its destructive path for nearly 100 meters, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
The impact proved fatal for six-year-old Dikshant, a resident of Unnao district, who sustained critical injuries. He was rushed to the Sarojini Nagar Community Health Centre but succumbed to his wounds despite medical efforts. The five injured victims include two women, two children, and an e-rickshaw driver, all of whom are currently receiving treatment for their injuries. The scene was described as chaotic, with locals scrambling to provide immediate assistance to the victims.
Swift Police Action and Arrest
Law enforcement authorities acted promptly, leveraging crucial evidence from nearby CCTV cameras that captured the entire horrifying sequence of events. The footage was instrumental in identifying and apprehending the accused driver, 21-year-old Gaurav Singh, within hours of the incident. During police interrogation, a teenage girl who was present in the car at the time of the accident confirmed Singh's identity, providing further corroboration.
Investigations revealed that Gaurav Singh was allegedly returning from a farewell party when the accident occurred. The car involved, which has been seized by the police, is registered in Kanpur district and belongs to a friend of the accused. Authorities have registered a formal case against Singh and have initiated comprehensive legal proceedings to ensure justice is served. The charges are expected to be severe, given the loss of life and the circumstances of reckless driving.
Broader Implications for Road Safety
This tragic event has reignited urgent conversations about road safety measures and enforcement in urban areas like Lucknow. The incident underscores the perils of speeding and negligent driving on busy roads, where pedestrians are particularly vulnerable. Community leaders and safety advocates are calling for stricter monitoring, enhanced traffic regulations, and public awareness campaigns to prevent such avoidable tragedies in the future.
The local administration has assured that all necessary support will be provided to the victims' families, including medical aid and legal assistance. As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on holding the responsible parties accountable and implementing measures to safeguard public safety on the city's roads.