In a tragic incident on Monday, a speeding SUV killed six pilgrims as it struck them in Bagdogra, Darjeeling district, West Bengal. The victims were in route to a Shiva temple to perform rituals on the last Monday of the Hindu month of Shravan.
The accident occurred early in the morning as the six pilgrims were traveling to the Jangli Baba temple to partake in their traditional water-pouring rituals, marking the auspicious end of Shravan. The SUV, traveling from Ghoshpukur towards Sikkim, lost control and collided with the pilgrims. According to local eyewitnesses, the SUV hit the victims one after another, resulting in their immediate deaths.
The impact of the collision was severe. The speeding SUV overturned and plunged into a nearby canal, causing further injuries to some passengers in the vehicle. The local residents quickly sprang into action, initiating rescue operations before a large police contingent arrived at the scene.
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Tensions escalated on the Bagdogra Asian Highway-2 as locals, outraged by the incident as speeding SUV killed six Pilgrims, began protesting and blocking the road. The police and emergency services worked to manage the situation, urging the protesters to disperse and restore order.
The bodies of the victims were initially taken to North Bengal Medical College & Hospital for examination and subsequently sent for post-mortem. The police have not yet released the identities of the deceased.
As of now, the area remains tense, with a significant police presence deployed to maintain control and manage the ongoing agitation. The authorities are actively engaging with the local community to ease tensions and address their concerns. The investigation into the accident is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
