A tragic road accident, blamed on dangerously thick fog, claimed the life of a local labourer in Ludhiana on Thursday night. The victim, identified as Raj Narayan, also known as Raju, died on the spot after his motorcycle collided with a wall at high speed in the Hathur area.
Details of the Tragic Incident
According to local authorities, the accident occurred shortly after Raj Narayan, a resident of Hathur village, left his home post-dinner. The prevailing fog conditions in the district had reduced visibility to near-zero. Just a short distance from his residence, Narayan lost control of his two-wheeler in the dense fog and rammed into a wall.
Passersby discovered the grim scene and alerted the police immediately. The impact of the crash was severe. Raj Narayan sustained critical head injuries and profuse bleeding, leading to his instantaneous death before any medical help could reach him. Doctors at a local hospital later declared him "brought dead."
Police Proceedings and Family's Loss
Inspector Kuljinder Singh, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Hathur police station, confirmed the details. The police have initiated legal proceedings under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Following the mandatory post-mortem examination, the body was handed over to his devastated family members.
The incident has plunged the small village into mourning. Neighbors and locals described Raj Narayan as a hardworking family man who was the sole provider for his wife and two young children. His sudden demise has left the family's future uncertain and cast a deep pall of gloom over the community.
Fog-Related Road Safety Concerns in Punjab
This fatality is not an isolated event but adds to a growing number of road accidents across Punjab as the region battles severe winter fog. The incident underscores a recurring seasonal hazard that puts all road users, especially vulnerable two-wheeler riders, at extreme risk.
Road safety experts consistently urge motorists to exercise utmost caution during such conditions. Key recommendations include:
- Avoiding non-essential travel during peak fog hours, typically late at night and early morning.
- Using high-visibility or reflective gear on clothing and vehicles.
- Driving at significantly reduced speeds with headlights on low beam.
The tragic death of Raj Narayan serves as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of navigating roads in near-zero visibility, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness and preventive measures during the foggy winter months.