Gwalior — The death toll in a tragic accident near Shitla Mata Temple in Madhya Pradesh’s Gwalior district has risen to 14 after a truck loaded with paddy sacks went out of control and rammed into shops early Sunday, officials said. More than 25 people were injured.
The accident occurred around 1.30 a.m. when the truck reportedly lost control while descending a slope near the historic temple, located about 18 km from the district headquarters. An official said around 50 people were struck by the vehicle, including several children and two police personnel.
According to eyewitnesses, the truck was approaching from the Chinor side when it lost control near the temple’s main outer gate and ploughed into shops in the vicinity. The impact damaged several shops and destroyed multiple two-wheelers.
Police teams rushed to the spot after receiving information about the accident and shifted the injured to hospitals. Around five injured people were reported to be in critical condition. The bodies of the deceased were taken to Jaya Arogya Hospital in Gwalior.
The accident triggered panic and scenes of distress, with people searching for family members and several victims reportedly trapped beneath the truck. Local residents questioned the administration’s safety arrangements and demanded accountability for the tragedy.
Shopkeeper Bablu Prajapati said four people present at his shop, including his father and two relatives, were injured and were undergoing treatment at a hospital.
The accident occurred during Navratri, when large numbers of devotees visit the revered Shitla Mata Temple. Authorities said the road near the temple is generally restricted to heavy vehicles during the festival, raising questions about how the truck was allowed to enter the area.
Officials have launched an investigation to establish the circumstances of the crash, determine who authorised the truck’s entry and identify any lapses that may have contributed to the accident.
Local residents have demanded compensation for the families of the deceased and free medical treatment for the injured. Further details are awaited.
–IANS