A 28-year-old finance employee was critically injured in Bengaluru's Sadashivanagar area when a large tree branch fell on his bike, leaving him with severe head injuries.
Incident Details
The accident occurred near the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) on October 9, 2024. The victim, identified as Ravi Kumar, was riding his motorcycle when a heavy branch from a rain tree suddenly snapped and crashed onto him. Passersby rushed him to a nearby hospital, where doctors said he suffered a fractured skull and internal bleeding.
According to the Sadashivanagar traffic police, the branch was about 15 feet long and weighed approximately 200 kilograms. The tree was estimated to be over 50 years old. A preliminary investigation suggests that recent rains and strong winds might have weakened the branch, causing it to fall without warning.
Victim's Condition
Ravi Kumar works as a senior financial analyst at a private firm in the city. His family members said he was on his way home from work when the incident occurred. Doctors at the hospital described his condition as critical but stable. He is currently on a ventilator and undergoing treatment for traumatic brain injury.
“The impact of the branch was so severe that his helmet cracked. He lost consciousness immediately. We are grateful to the bystanders who acted quickly,” said his brother, Mahesh Kumar, who rushed to the hospital.
Response and Investigation
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has launched an inquiry into the incident. A senior BBMP official stated that the tree was not on the list of dangerous trees identified for pruning or removal. “We will inspect all trees in the area to prevent such accidents in the future,” the official said.
Local residents have expressed concern over the condition of trees in the area. Many trees are old and have not been properly maintained. They demanded a comprehensive tree survey and regular pruning to ensure public safety.
Broader Context
This incident is the latest in a series of tree-related accidents in Bengaluru. In July 2024, a large branch fell on a car in the same locality, injuring two people. Environmental activists have repeatedly called for better tree management, citing that many trees in the city are overgrown and pose risks during storms.
“The BBMP needs to take proactive measures. Waiting for an accident to happen is not acceptable. We need a systematic approach to tree care,” said Dr. N. S. Ramachandra, a local environmentalist.
The police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for causing grievous hurt by negligence. Further investigation is ongoing.
