The tragic death toll from last week's devastating multi-vehicle collision on the Yamuna Expressway has risen to 19. The latest victim, a passenger who was critically injured in the crash, succumbed to his injuries at SN Medical College on Thursday.
Victim's Personal Tragedy Amidst Chaos
The deceased has been identified as Mohammed Usman (50), a resident of Hamirpur who worked in Delhi. His son, Arman, shared the heartbreaking context of his father's journey. Usman was returning to Delhi after a visit to Hamirpur, where he was finalising arrangements for his daughter's wedding, scheduled for February 2026, when the catastrophic accident occurred.
Administration's Challenging Task of Identification
With most bodies charred beyond recognition due to the intense fire that engulfed the vehicles, the administration faces a grim challenge. Mathura District Magistrate CP Singh addressed the media, confirming that DNA samples are being collected to identify the victims of the unfortunate incident that took place on December 16.
The collision, which happened in low-visibility conditions in the Baldev area of Mathura, involved eight buses and two other vehicles, all of which were severely burnt. Singh stated that at least 14 people have already submitted DNA samples to aid in the identification process.
Probe and New Safety Measures Announced
A probe committee headed by an officer of the Additional District Magistrate (ADM) rank has been formed. This committee is investigating the precise causes of the accident and will recommend measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
In response to the disaster, the Yamuna Expressway Authority and the state government have begun implementing immediate guidelines. These include:
- Forming controlled vehicle convoys during periods of low visibility.
- Halting all traffic when weather and visibility conditions deteriorate severely.
- Installing additional surveillance cameras along the expressway.
- Clearing overgrown bushes and tree branches that had obscured important road reflectors on the stretch.
District Magistrate Singh also issued a direct appeal to commuters, urging them to remain constantly alert to their driving speed and prevailing road conditions while travelling.
