A young college student lost his life in a devastating road accident early Monday morning on the Erumely-Mundakayam road in Kottayam district. The tragic incident involved a vehicle transporting Sabarimala pilgrims and has cast a pall of gloom over the local community.
Details of the Fatal Morning Accident
The accident occurred around 7 am on Monday. Jeswin Saju, a 19-year-old student of Amal Jyothi College in Koovappally, was travelling on a scooter. He was on his way to Erumely to drop his younger brother, who studies in Muvattupuzha, at the bus stop. Reports indicate that Jeswin lost control of the two-wheeler and collided with a group of Sabarimala pilgrims who were walking along the roadside.
This initial impact caused Jeswin to fall onto the road. In a horrific turn of events, he was immediately run over by the vehicle that was following closely behind his scooter. This vehicle was also carrying pilgrims headed to the famous Sabarimala temple. Despite being rushed to the Mary Queens Mission Hospital located at 26th Mile, Jeswin succumbed to the serious injuries he sustained in the collision.
Family Background and Aftermath
Jeswin Saju was the son of Saju, a resident of Pala Thottam in Kanimala. His father is a teacher at St Antony's High School in Mundakayam. The family is well-known and respected in the area, making the loss profoundly felt. In a stroke of fortune amidst the tragedy, Jeswin's brother, who was the pillion rider on the scooter, escaped with only minor injuries.
The local authorities have registered a case and are investigating the exact sequence of events that led to the fatal crash. The incident highlights the perennial risks on busy pilgrimage routes, especially during the Sabarimala season when traffic volume increases significantly.
Funeral Arrangements Announced
The final rites for the young student have been scheduled. The funeral will be held on Tuesday at 3 pm at the St Joseph's Church cemetery in Kanimala. The community is expected to gather in large numbers to pay their last respects to Jeswin, whose promising life was cut short so abruptly.
This tragic event serves as a somber reminder for all road users, especially on routes frequented by pilgrims, to exercise extreme caution. It underscores the critical importance of maintaining safe distances between vehicles and being vigilant of pedestrians and two-wheelers.
