On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, a tragic bus accident occurred in the Sikar district of Rajasthan state, India. A private bus crashed into a concrete culvert, resulting in 13 fatalities and over 35 injuries. The district is a prominent location for various cultural and religious sites.
The bus was en route from Salasar to Nawalgarh when it lost control and collided with the culvert near Laxmangarh, travelling at a speed of approximately 50 mph. Investigators reported that the impact was so intense it split the vehicle in half.
Two passengers succumbed to their injuries at the scene, while three others passed away during surgery. Presently, 23 individuals are under treatment for severe injuries at local medical facilities. Some of the critically injured have been referred to specialized hospitals in Jaipur.
Expressing his sorrow, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma referred to the bus accident in Laxmangarh, Sikar as deeply saddening. He offered his sincere condolences to the families of the victims and confirmed that officials have been directed to ensure the injured receive appropriate medical care. He communicated this message on X.
Witnesses at the scene reported that the bus failed to make a turn on the bridge, leading to the accident. Local residents and passersby initiated rescue efforts before the arrival of emergency services.
The Indian government has announced financial aid for the families of the victims. The kin of the deceased will receive $2,378, while those injured will be provided with $595.
This accident contributes to a concerning trend of bus crashes in India this year, emphasizing the need for improved safety measures on the nation’s roads.
In a similar incident in August, a bus carrying 41 passengers, including 24 Indian tourists, skidded off a narrow road into a river in Nepal’s mountainous Tanahun district, resulting in 27 deaths.
Such incidents highlight the ongoing concerns regarding insufficient safety regulations and the hazardous conditions of hilly regions. The steep, winding roads in these areas often prove perilous for overloaded or speeding vehicles.
