Koderma LPG Tanker Crash Kills Elderly Man, Injures 10 on Ranchi-Patna Road
A devastating road accident in Koderma district on Saturday resulted in the death of an elderly man and left ten others with injuries. The incident occurred when a speeding LPG tanker lost control and collided with a passenger jeep before plowing into several traders who were setting up their shops on the pavement.
Details of the Tragic Collision
The police confirmed that the accident took place near Urwan on the busy Ranchi-Patna Road. The deceased victim has been identified as Ruplal Singh, aged 57. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Ratibhan Singh, the sequence of events unfolded rapidly.
"The LPG tanker was traveling from Hazaribag to Bihar via Koderma," explained DSP Singh. "Simultaneously, a passenger vehicle carrying people from Jhumri Tilaiya was en route to Tilaiya Dam. As both vehicles approached Urwan, the tanker suddenly veered into the opposite lane, striking the passenger jeep with tremendous force."
The collision did not end there. After hitting the jeep, the out-of-control tanker continued its destructive path, crashing into multiple traders who were arranging their goods on the roadside pavement. Several motorcyclists in the vicinity were also caught in the accident, adding to the casualty count.
Emergency Response and Hospitalizations
Local authorities from the Chandwara police station rushed to the scene immediately. All injured individuals were promptly transported to the Sadar Hospital for urgent medical treatment. Dr. Anil Kumar, the Civil Surgeon of Koderma, confirmed the grim news upon arrival at the hospital.
"One passenger was brought to the hospital deceased," stated Dr. Kumar. The medical team is currently providing care to the ten injured victims, whose conditions are being closely monitored. The severity of their injuries varies, with some reported to be in critical condition.
Police Investigation and Driver Hunt
In the aftermath of the crash, the driver of the LPG tanker fled the scene, abandoning the vehicle. The police have launched an intensive manhunt to locate and apprehend the driver, who faces serious charges related to the fatal accident.
The tanker itself has been seized by law enforcement as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities are examining the vehicle for potential mechanical failures and other factors that might have contributed to the tragic incident. The police are also gathering statements from eyewitnesses to reconstruct the exact circumstances leading to the collision.
This accident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety on major highways, particularly involving heavy commercial vehicles. The Ranchi-Patna Road is a crucial transportation artery, and such incidents raise questions about enforcement of traffic regulations and driver accountability.
