Tragic Van Accident on Prayagraj-Kanpur Highway Leaves Eight Dead, 21 Injured
A horrific road accident near Kurawli village on the Prayagraj-Kanpur highway (NH-2) in Kaushambi district resulted in the deaths of eight individuals and injuries to 21 others on Friday evening. The collision involved a van carrying passengers and a stationary truck, causing significant devastation and a major traffic disruption.
Details of the Fatal Collision
The accident occurred around 4 pm under the jurisdiction of the Saini police station. According to Kaushambi SP Rajesh Kumar, the victims were returning to Kurawali village in Fatehpur after attending a 'mundan' ceremony in Prayagraj. The van driver reportedly lost control, causing the vehicle to ram into the back of a parked truck. The impact was severe, leading to immediate fatalities and multiple injuries among the 29 passengers on board.
Victims and Immediate Response
The deceased have been identified as:
- Sukhrania (65)
- Darsaniya (68)
- Raj Kumari (35)
- Kalloo (22)
- Gudia (27)
- Dhruv (7)
- Mayank (10)
- Anuj (8)
All were residents of Jafarganj, Fatehpur. The injured were swiftly transported to Sirathu CHC and the district hospital in Manjhanpur, where they were reported to be in stable condition. However, a health department official noted that more than 20 injured persons required medical attention, with some suffering fractures and others referred for advanced treatment. Tragically, a few victims succumbed to their injuries en route to the hospital.
Official Condolences and Relief Measures
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and announced financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh ex gratia for the kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for each injured person. He directed officials to immediately reach the accident site and expedite relief and rescue operations to aid the affected families.
Impact and Aftermath
The collision caused a major traffic snarl on the busy NH-2 highway for over an hour, highlighting the urgent need for improved road safety measures in the region. This incident underscores the critical importance of cautious driving and proper vehicle maintenance, especially on high-traffic routes like the Prayagraj-Kanpur corridor.
Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the accident, with initial reports pointing to driver error. The community mourns the loss of lives, including five women and three children, in this preventable tragedy that has left families shattered and the region in shock.
