Tragic Multi-Vehicle Collision on Yamuna Expressway Claims Lives and Injures Many
Fatal Accident on Yamuna Expressway
A severe accident occurred on the Yamuna Expressway near milestone 127 in Mathura due to low visibility, resulting in the tragic deaths of thirteen individuals and injuries to twenty-five others who were subsequently hospitalized. Authorities confirmed that the incident, caused by dense fog on the Delhi-Agra Expressway, involved a chain collision between eight buses and three cars early Tuesday morning, which led to a fire engulfing the vehicles.
Chaos Erupts as Vehicles Ignite
The impact of the collision was so intense that flames erupted in all vehicles almost instantly, trapping passengers inside and creating a scene of chaos. Eyewitnesses reported that as the fire rapidly spread from one vehicle to another, panic ensued, with passengers desperately trying to escape and calling for help.
Rescue Operations Underway
Emergency services, including fire brigades and police teams, quickly arrived at the scene. Firefighters worked to extinguish the flames while rescue teams focused on extracting survivors and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. Approximately twenty-five individuals were taken to medical facilities in Mathura and surrounding districts, with several reported to be in critical condition.
Prime Minister Announces Compensation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the loss of life in this accident and announced financial assistance for the victims. He stated, "The loss of life in the accident on the Yamuna Expressway in Mathura is deeply saddening. My condolences go out to those who have lost their loved ones, and I pray for the swift recovery of the injured." Each family of the deceased will receive ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund, while the injured will receive ₹50,000.
Traffic Disruption and Investigation Launched
Traffic on the affected section of the expressway was halted for hours as emergency teams worked to clear the debris. An investigation has been initiated to determine the causes of the accident, particularly in light of the dense fog conditions prevailing in Uttar Pradesh. The incident occurred during a period of heavy fog that had enveloped many parts of the state, significantly reducing visibility in urban areas.
Fog Affects Visibility Across Regions
Agra remained shrouded in thick fog, rendering the Taj Mahal invisible for several hours. Similar reports emerged from Varanasi, Prayagraj, Mainpuri, and Moradabad, where poor visibility forced drivers to reduce their speed. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, air quality varied across the state, with Agra recording poor AQI levels, while Noida fell into the severe category. Delhi also experienced severe air quality on Monday morning, with toxic smog significantly impairing visibility throughout the city.
Authorities Assess the Situation
Officials are currently evaluating the aftermath of the accident and are awaiting further information.