Kalyan Businessman Fatally Struck by Teen Driver in Hit-and-Run on Incomplete Ring Road
A tragic hit-and-run incident on Tuesday night claimed the life of a 42-year-old businessman in Kalyan, highlighting severe safety concerns on an incomplete stretch of the city's Ring Road. The victim, Srinivas Tandle, was cycling when he was struck by a speeding car allegedly driven by a 17-year-old boy, who fled the scene and was later apprehended.
Details of the Fatal Accident
The incident occurred around 8 PM on Tuesday on the Ring Road, where Tandle was cycling to improve his fitness, having borrowed a bicycle from a friend just two days prior. CCTV footage captured the moment a car, being driven at high speed, swerved and crashed into him, briefly flinging him into the air before speeding away. Locals alerted the Khadakpada police, who rushed Tandle to a nearby private hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Investigation and Arrest of the Teen Driver
Police tracked down the car to a parking lot in the building where the 17-year-old's family resides. The vehicle had minor damage. The teen, who fled and went into hiding, was apprehended the next evening. An FIR has been lodged for rash and negligent driving, along with non-bailable charges. Senior police inspector Amarnath Waghmode confirmed that the boy's mother, who owns the vehicle, has also been named as an accused, as the boy informed her before taking the car out. The boy's father is a lawyer.
Police sources revealed that the teen posted on social media soon after the hit-and-run, stating he had a "small accident" and feared being scolded by his father. The post was later deleted.
Community Outrage and Safety Demands
The victim's brother, Ganesh Tandle, emphasized that the CCTV footage showed reckless driving before the impact. Family friend Vimal Thakkar demanded strict action and urged the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation to expedite the pending Ring Road work and enhance safety measures. Outraged locals, especially walkers and cyclists, echoed these calls, seeking installation of additional speed breakers, CCTV cameras, and police barricades.
This is not an isolated incident; on February 21, a 50-year-old man sustained serious injuries after a car hit him on the same stretch. Police took action against three persons in that case, resulting in their driving licences being cancelled.
Background on the Ring Road Project
The Ring Road project is being developed in multiple phases by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). Work on the stretch between Barave and near Vadavali bridge has been stalled for the past two years due to land acquisition issues. Consequently, a significant portion of the road remains partially closed and is frequently used by residents for walking and cycling, despite ongoing safety risks from speeding vehicles.
This incident underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure and enforcement to prevent further tragedies on Kalyan's roads.
