In a tragic road accident in Uttar Pradesh's Lakhimpur Kheri district, at least 10 people were killed and several others injured when a van collided head-on with a truck on Tuesday. The incident occurred on the Lakhimpur-Mohanlalganj highway near the Gola Gokarannath area.
Details of the Accident
According to police officials, the van was carrying passengers from a nearby village when it collided with an oncoming truck. The impact was so severe that the van was completely mangled, trapping many occupants inside. Rescue teams rushed to the spot and extricated the victims, who were then taken to a local hospital. The injured are undergoing treatment, and some are reported to be in critical condition.
Immediate Response
Upon hearing the news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the loss of lives. In a tweet, he said, "Pained by the loss of lives in a road accident in Lakhimpur Kheri, Uttar Pradesh. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon." He also announced an ex gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the seriously injured from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed condolences and directed officials to provide all possible assistance to the affected families. He announced an ex gratia of Rs. 2 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured from the state government's relief fund.
Investigation Underway
Senior police officers have reached the spot and are investigating the cause of the accident. Preliminary reports suggest that overspeeding and driver negligence might have led to the collision. The truck driver has been taken into custody for questioning. Authorities are also examining the vehicles to determine if any mechanical failure contributed to the mishap.
Previous Accidents in the Region
This stretch of highway has witnessed several accidents in the past due to poor road conditions and heavy traffic. Local residents have demanded better road safety measures, including speed breakers and improved lighting. The district administration has assured that steps will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted the need for stringent enforcement of traffic rules and better road infrastructure in the state.
