Chhattisgarh: On Sunday afternoon, Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Rajwade’s convoy was involved in a road accident on the Ambikapur-Ramanujganj National Highway-343 near Chargaon village, approximately 8 km from Rajpur. While no injuries were reported, several vehicles in the convoy, including the minister’s car, were damaged.

Accident Details

The incident occurred around 3 PM when Minister Rajwade was en route to attend the final match of the Sw. Birsa Munda Football Tournament in Kusmi, Balrampur district, as the chief guest. During the journey, vehicles in the convoy slowed down while overtaking a truck, leading to a collision among the cars in the convoy.

After the accident, the convoy proceeded to the Rajpur Rest House, where all occupants underwent a routine health check-up before continuing to their destination. Minister Rajwade remains unharmed.

Police Action

Earlier in the day, another vehicle in the minister's convoy was hit by a reckless driver near the Gagar River. Police arrived promptly at the scene and detained the accused driver for negligent driving.

Series of Accidents Involving Leaders

This accident adds to a series of recent road mishaps involving Chhattisgarh’s leaders:

• November 22: Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam’s car was hit by a pickup truck on the Bemetara Road near Jevra, leaving him seriously injured. He is currently undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Raipur.
• Earlier incidents include accidents involving Minister Dayaldas Baghel and BJP leader Harshita Pandey, both of whom escaped with minor injuries.

Focus on Safety

The spate of accidents has raised concerns about road safety measures for convoys of public officials. Authorities have been urged to ensure stricter adherence to traffic rules and enhance convoy protocols to prevent such mishaps in the future.

While the damages were limited to vehicles in this instance, the incident highlights the need for vigilance to avoid more serious outcomes.