A tragic accident occurred on Sunday when a private luxury bus carrying devotees overturned near Laheripura village on the Sevalia-Galteshwar Road in Kheda district, resulting in the death of a 65-year-old woman and injuries to over 30 passengers, according to police reports.
Details of the Incident
The bus was transporting devotees from Iyava village in Sanand taluka to Dakor and Galteshwar on the occasion of Adhik Maas Amavasya. According to Sevalia police, the passengers had visited Dakor and were heading to Galteshwar when the accident occurred around 11:15 am.
Cause of the Accident
Police said the private bus was attempting to negotiate a turn near a road divider cut between Ambav and Laheripura villages when the driver allegedly lost control of the steering wheel. The vehicle overturned into a roadside ditch, trapping several passengers inside.
Rescue Operations
The impact triggered panic among passengers, many of whom were women and children. Local residents and motorists rushed to the spot after hearing cries for help and joined rescue efforts. Witnesses and emergency responders broke open windows and doors of the bus to pull out the injured.
Several ambulances were deployed, and the injured were shifted to government hospitals in Sevalia and nearby areas. Police confirmed that over 30 passengers sustained injuries of varying severity. At least 18 were later referred to Godhra Civil Hospital, with two of the injured reported to be in serious condition.
Fatality
The deceased was identified as Pasi Solanki, a 65-year-old woman who was traveling with the group. She was taken to Thasra Community Health Centre, where doctors declared her dead.
Legal Action
Based on a complaint lodged by a fellow passenger and relative, Vitthal Solanki, aged 50, Sevalia police registered a case against the bus driver for causing death due to negligent driving and under relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.
Investigation
The mechanical condition of the vehicle is also being checked as part of the probe. Officials said statements of passengers and witnesses are being recorded, and further investigation is underway. The damaged bus has been seized.
