At least three people were killed and several others feared trapped after a soil-laden tipper lorry crashed into a bus stop in Kerala's Kollam district on Wednesday, June 23. The incident occurred near the Kollam bypass road, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Details of the accident
According to police officials, the tipper lorry, which was carrying a heavy load of soil, lost control while navigating a curve and rammed into a crowded bus stop. The impact was severe, causing the bus stop structure to collapse partially. Eyewitnesses reported that the lorry driver tried to avoid a collision but failed, leading to the tragedy.
Local residents and passersby rushed to the spot to help the victims. Emergency services, including fire and rescue teams, were immediately dispatched to the scene. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, with some in critical condition.
Casualties and rescue operations
Three individuals were declared dead on arrival at the hospital, while several others sustained serious injuries. Rescue operations continued for hours as teams worked to extricate people trapped under the debris. The lorry driver was arrested and is being questioned by the police.
Kerala Transport Minister Antony Raju expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 5 lakh each to the next of kin. He also ordered a detailed inquiry into the accident and directed officials to ensure that overloaded vehicles are strictly monitored.
Reactions and safety concerns
Local residents raised concerns about reckless driving and the lack of safety measures on the bypass road. Many demanded the installation of speed breakers and better signage. The incident has once again highlighted the issue of overloaded trucks plying on Kerala's roads, which often lead to fatal accidents.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed grief over the incident and instructed authorities to provide the best possible medical treatment to the injured. The opposition also called for stricter enforcement of traffic rules to prevent such tragedies.
