Udhampur Worker Killed in Patna Highway Accident, Locals Stage Protest Blockade
A tragic road accident on the Patna-Bakhtiyarpur four-lane highway, designated as National Highway 30, resulted in the death of a young worker from Jammu and Kashmir, sparking outrage and a temporary road blockade by local residents. The incident occurred near Fatuha on Sunday, highlighting ongoing safety concerns on this busy route.
Details of the Fatal Collision
Arun Kumar, a 22-year-old laborer hailing from Udhampur in Jammu, was fatally struck by a white car that bore a rural works department board. According to preliminary reports, the vehicle first collided with a parked truck before hitting Kumar, who was employed at a private warehouse in the area. The impact left him with severe injuries, and despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, he succumbed to his wounds shortly after arrival.
Aftermath and Local Outrage
In a disturbing turn of events, the occupants of the car fled the scene immediately after the accident, abandoning the damaged vehicle. This act of negligence incensed local residents, who responded by blocking the highway with Kumar's body as a form of protest against what they perceived as reckless driving and a lack of accountability. The blockade disrupted traffic flow on NH-30, drawing attention to the broader issues of road safety and enforcement in the region.
Police Intervention and Ongoing Investigation
Station House Officer Kumar Roshan from Fatuha police station intervened to pacify the angry protesters, successfully persuading them to clear the road and restore normal traffic. Police authorities have launched a search operation to locate the absconding driver and other occupants of the car involved in the accident. The investigation is ongoing, with officials examining the vehicle and gathering witness statements to determine the exact circumstances leading to the collision.
This incident underscores the urgent need for stricter traffic regulations and improved safety measures on highways like NH-30 to prevent such tragedies in the future. The community's reaction reflects growing frustration over frequent accidents and perceived impunity for offenders in the area.
