In a solemn response to the devastating road accident on the Lucknow-Agra Expressway in Uttar Pradesh’s Unnao district, President Droupadi Murmu expressed profound grief over the loss of lives and injuries caused by the collision between a double-decker bus and a milk tanker.
An official statement from Rashtrapati Bhavan conveyed the President’s heartfelt sentiments, describing the incident as “extremely sad”. The tragedy unfolded early Wednesday morning, claiming the lives of eighteen individuals and leaving over 30 others injured when the bus en route from Motihari, Bihar, to Delhi collided with the tanker near Gadha Village in the Behtamujawar Police Station area.
“I express my deepest condolences to the family members of those who have become victims of such sudden death and wish for the speedy recovery of those injured,” the President’s statement read, underscoring her sympathy for the bereaved families.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also extended condolences to the affected families, directing the district administration to expedite relief efforts and ensure all injured receive prompt medical care. Reflecting on the tragic loss, CM Adityanath lamented, “The loss of life in a road accident in Unnao district is extremely sad and heart-wrenching.”
Authorities swiftly responded to the scene, with police and medical teams mobilizing to assist victims. Circle Officer of Bangarmau, Arvind Chaurasia, led the rescue operations, while Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak visited the Unnao district hospital to oversee treatment for the injured.
“18 people have lost their lives while several are injured and have been sent to Unnao district hospital. Injured are being shifted to higher-level hospitals,” Deputy CM Pathak confirmed, emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing comprehensive medical support. He also noted that many of the injured hail from Bihar, with ongoing coordination between Uttar Pradesh and Bihar governments to manage the aftermath.
As investigations into the accident continue, Deputy CM Pathak assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ascertain the causes and prevent future tragedies. The trauma center at KGMO remains on high alert, underscoring the state’s readiness to handle emergencies and ensure no effort is spared in supporting those affected.
The Unnao tragedy has cast a pall of sorrow over the region, prompting national leaders and authorities to rally support for the victims’ families and reinforce commitments to road safety measures.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and stringent enforcement of safety regulations on India’s highways, as efforts continue to mitigate risks and safeguard lives on the roads.