Dhar District Tragedy: Death Toll Rises to 16 After Laborers' Accident
Accident Overview
Photo: IANS
Bhopal/Dhar, April 30: The death toll from the tragic accident in Dhar district has now reached 16, following the passing of four additional laborers from their injuries. All victims were cremated together on Thursday.
The incident occurred late Tuesday night within the Tirla police station area when a pickup truck, transporting approximately 46 laborers, including women and children, lost control near a hotel.
The vehicle, which was traveling from Ghatabillod, swerved into oncoming traffic before flipping over.
The collision was so intense that 12 individuals died on the spot, while four others later succumbed to their injuries, bringing the total fatalities to 16.
The aftermath of the accident was chaotic, with ambulances swiftly transporting the injured to District Bhoj Hospital in Dhar. The hospital environment became increasingly tense as more patients arrived.
Officials reported that 13 injured individuals are currently receiving treatment at the district hospital, six at a private facility, and nine critically injured patients have been transferred to Indore for specialized medical attention.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has announced financial aid of ₹4 lakh for the families of the deceased, ₹1 lakh for those in critical condition, and ₹50,000 for individuals with minor injuries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow over the incident, offering condolences to the grieving families and wishing a swift recovery for the injured.
The Prime Minister’s Office has confirmed that an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh will be provided to the families of the deceased from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund, along with ₹50,000 for the injured.
The administration of Dhar district has committed to conducting a thorough investigation to ascertain the cause of the accident and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.