Kasganj, Uttar Pradesh, February 25, 2024: At least 22 people were killed and several others injured when a tractor-trolley overturned in a pond in Kasganj district of Uttar Pradesh on Saturday.
The accident took place in the Patiyali area of Kasganj when the tractor-trolley, which was carrying around 50 people, overturned into a pond while trying to avoid a collision with another vehicle. The victims were all pilgrims who were on their way to take a holy dip in the Ganga river.
Rescue operations
Rescue operations were launched by the police, fire brigade, and local villagers. The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital, where some of them are said to be in critical condition.
Compensation announced
The Uttar Pradesh government has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of the deceased. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the accident.
Similar accidents
This is not the first time that such an accident has taken place in Uttar Pradesh. In 2017, at least 24 people were killed when a bus fell into a ditch in Kannauj district. In 2016, at least 15 people were killed when a tractor-trolley overturned in a pond in Fatehpur district.
Road safety
These accidents highlight the need for better road safety in Uttar Pradesh. The state government has taken some steps to improve road safety, such as making it mandatory for all two-wheeler riders to wear helmets. However, more needs to be done to improve road safety in the state.
