Tragic Accident in Gurdaspur Claims Lives of Two Young Cousins
In a devastating incident that has left the community in shock, two young cousins lost their lives in a fatal accident near Nawan Pind Jhavar in Gurdaspur. The boys, identified as Manpreet, aged 11, and Harpreet, aged 10, were on their way to purchase colours for their school exams when tragedy struck on Thursday evening.
Details of the Heartbreaking Collision
The cousins were riding a motorcycle with Manpreet's father, Manjinder Kumar, when a speeding tractor-trolley loaded with soil collided with their vehicle. The impact was severe, throwing all three onto the road. In a horrific turn of events, the trolley then ran over both boys, killing them instantly at the scene. Manjinder Kumar sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at the Civil Hospital, where his condition remains critical.
Aftermath and Community Outrage
The driver of the tractor-trolley fled the scene immediately after the accident, abandoning the vehicle and evading initial capture. This act of negligence sparked widespread anger among local residents. On Friday, grief-stricken villagers blocked the Babbari Bypass in protest, demanding justice for the young victims and highlighting the urgent need for improved road safety measures in the area.
Police Response and Legal Action
Law enforcement authorities have taken swift action in response to the incident. The police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) and have already arrested one accused in connection with the case. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of the accident and to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable under the law.
A Community in Mourning
The tragic loss of Manpreet and Harpreet has cast a pall of sorrow over the village, with residents coming together to support the bereaved families. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving and overloaded vehicles on rural roads, particularly in areas where infrastructure may not adequately protect vulnerable road users.
This heartbreaking event underscores the critical importance of road safety awareness and enforcement, especially in regions where agricultural and transport vehicles share roads with pedestrians and smaller vehicles.