By Vishwapati
Patna: A devastating road accident took place in the Masaurhi area of Patna, the capital, resulting in a harrowing collision between a truck and an auto-rickshaw. The impact was so severe that both vehicles were flung off a bridge into a water-filled pit below. Tragically, more than 10 people are feared to have lost their lives in the incident. The accident took place near Nura Bazaar, within the jurisdiction of the Masaurhi police station.
The tragedy is reported to have unfolded on Sunday night when labourers from Kharat village, who had been working in Patna, were returning home late. As they approached Nura Bazaar, a speeding truck collided with the auto-rickshaw. The force of the crash caused both vehicles to lose control and plunge into a water-filled pit by the roadside. All the passengers in the auto-rickshaw were submerged, and it is feared that they have drowned. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with screams echoing from the site as locals immediately began rescue efforts.
Upon receiving information of the accident, officers from the Masaurhi police station rushed to the scene and initiated relief and rescue operations. Local residents also joined in to assist, pulling out the injured and transporting them to hospital. However, the exact number of fatalities remains unconfirmed at this stage.
Vijay Yadavendu, the officer in charge of Masaurhi police station, stated, “A severe collision took place between a truck and an auto-rickshaw near Nura Bazaar. The auto was carrying several passengers, all of whom have fallen into the water. Relief efforts are currently underway, and we are assessing the number of casualties and injuries.”
The incident has sparked significant outrage among local residents, who have criticised the lack of road safety measures in the area. They claim that accidents are becoming increasingly frequent due to poor infrastructure and inadequate enforcement of traffic regulations. The community has urged the administration to take immediate action, including stricter adherence to traffic rules and the installation of speed breakers to prevent such tragedies in the future. Some villagers highlighted that this road has witnessed numerous accidents in the past, yet no substantial steps have been taken by the authorities to address the issue.
The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com
