Key Highlights:
On November 29, 2024, a MSRTC bus traveling from Bhandara to Gondia met with a tragic accident near Khajri village in Gondia district. The bus, carrying 41 passengers, overturned while attempting to overtake another vehicle; the accident claimed 11 lives and injured nearly 30 people.
Accident Details
The accident happened at around 12:30 PM when the MSRTC ‘Shiv Shahi’ bus attempted to overtake a vehicle on a narrow stretch of road. The driver lost control, and the bus flipped over near Davva village. Emergency services, including local authorities, ambulances, and police, arrived promptly to assist victims and clear the wreckage.
Casualties and Injuries
The accident left 11 people dead, whose identity has been ascertained by the concerned authorities. More than 30 people on board have reported injuries of all grades and have been taken to various hospitals close to the area. Medication is under way while efforts are made to inform the family of the deceased and the injured ones.
Government Response
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured that the state government would pro assistance to the victims and their families. He emphasized the importance of road safety and the need for stringent measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Prime Minister’s Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief to the families and ordered an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh for the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. He highlighted road safety issues and demanded authorities to put in place necessary measures so that this does not recur.
Investigation Underway
The local law enforcement authority has launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. Preliminary reports suggest’s attempt to overtake on a narrow road might have resulted in a loss of control. Various factors, including road conditions, vehicle maintenance records, and driver behavior, are being scrutinized by authorities in order to assign accountability.
Community Impact
The Gondia district community is mourning the tragic event. Local leaders and residents have voiced their anguish and are offering counseling to the families of victims. Counseling to the survivors and relatives is also being organized so that they can recover from the psychological trauma.
Road Safety Measures
This incident highlights the critical need for improved road safety measures in Maharashtra. Authorities are urged to conduct regular driver training programs, enforce traffic regulations strictly, and improve road infrastructure to prevent future accidents. Public awareness campaigns focusing on safe driving practices are also essential to enhance road safety.
Conclusion
The Gondia bus accident is a sad reminder of the importance of road safety and the devastating impact that traffic accidents can cause. As investigations continue, authorities should take effective measures to prevent such incidents and ensure the safety of all road users.
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