In a tragic incident that has shocked Bihar’s Bhagalpur district, a speeding bus lost control and collided with a pickup van and an e-rickshaw on National Highway-31 near Bagdi Bridge in Naugachia on Tuesday evening. The devastating crash claimed four lives on the spot, with several others injured.
The accident unfolded in the jurisdiction of Khirak police station around 6 PM. Eyewitnesses reported that the bus, traveling at high speed, first rammed into the pickup van before veering into the e-rickshaw, crushing its occupants. All four victims were passengers on the e-rickshaw and died instantly at the scene.
Local police rushed to the site upon receiving reports of the collision. They managed to extricate the injured and transported them to Bihpur Community Health Centre for initial treatment. Three of the wounded were in critical condition and were promptly referred to Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College Hospital in Bhagalpur for advanced care.
Authorities have taken custody of the four deceased bodies, sending them for post-mortem examination. Preliminary information suggests three victims hailed from Sameli in Katihar district, while one was from Mansi in Khagaria district, though official confirmation is pending.
The crash caused massive traffic congestion on the busy NH-31, which police cleared after hours of effort. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause, with speed and overtaking maneuvers emerging as prime suspects.
Residents of the area have long voiced concerns over reckless driving on this stretch. ‘Drivers race to pick up passengers, ignoring safety,’ said one local commuter. This incident underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of speed limits and better road infrastructure to prevent future tragedies.