President Droupadi Murmu, VP Radhakrishnan Condole Deaths In Gujarat Road Accident

President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Monday expressed deep sorrow over a tragic road accident in Surendranagar district that claimed seven lives.

In a message shared on social media, President Murmu described the incident as ‘extremely heartbreaking’. She extended her condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.

Vice President Radhakrishnan also expressed grief over the incident, offering his heartfelt sympathies to the families of the victims and wishing a quick recovery to those injured.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the accident deeply distressing and conveyed his solidarity with the affected families.

As per reports, the accident occurred around 1:20 AM on the Lakhtar–Viramgam highway, between Chharad and Bhaskarpara villages. A speeding dumper truck rammed into a group of pilgrims walking along the roadside.

The victims belonged to the Bharwad community and were travelling from Gadhka village in Rajkot district towards Viramgam to take part in temple rituals. They were part of a larger group of nearly 700 devotees.

Seven members of the Mundhva family, including five women and two men, died at the scene. The deceased have been identified as Masabhai Mundhva, Jaluben Mundhva, Raniben Lambariya and Vajiben Mundhva, among others.

At least four people sustained serious injuries and were admitted to the hospital. Some reports suggest that the number of those affected could be higher.

Eyewitnesses said the truck failed to slow down before hitting the group.

Emergency services, including the 108 ambulance team, responded promptly and shifted the injured to a government hospital.

Police have registered a case against the driver, who fled the scene. An investigation is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the accident.