A tragic road accident in Maharashtra's Palghar district claimed 13 lives and left 16 others injured on Monday. The incident occurred when a pickup truck, carrying approximately 50 members of an engagement party, was traveling north on the wrong side of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad highway near Dhaniwari village in Dahanu.
Details of the Accident
A larger truck moving south swerved to avoid a collision with the oncoming pickup, but its container fell onto the smaller vehicle, crushing it. The pickup driver had allegedly bypassed a designated U-turn about a kilometer away and instead took an illegal shortcut by driving on the wrong side of the road.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Thirteen people were pronounced dead at the scene, while 16 others sustained injuries. Authorities fear the death toll could rise as several of the injured are reported to be in critical condition. Rescue teams and ambulances rushed the victims to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Local police have registered a case and are investigating the incident. The driver of the pickup is among the injured and will be questioned once he is stable. The container truck driver has been detained for further inquiry.
This accident highlights the dangers of reckless driving and the importance of following traffic rules. Officials have urged drivers to avoid shortcuts and adhere to designated routes to prevent such tragedies.
