Four Kanwariyas struck by a speeding vehicle, many others injured
In Bihar's Banka district, a tragic accident claimed the lives of four Kanwariyas after they were struck by a speeding vehicle in Nagardih village on October 18. The pilgrims, who were carrying Ganga water from Ajgavinath Dham in Sultanganj, were en route to Deoghar to offer it to Lord Shiva when the incident occurred.
Several others were critically injured when a black SUV plowed through the group. According to the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Bipin Bihari, the situation initially led to unrest but was brought under control. Bablu Kumar, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Fullidumar police station, confirmed the accident and stated that the driver fled the scene immediately after the crash.
Emergency responders rushed to the site to rescue the injured, who were taken to Sadar Hospital in Banka, where two remain in critical condition. Authorities are actively investigating the incident and working to trace the vehicle involved.
Following the accident, a large crowd gathered, and in their anger, they set a police vehicle on fire and pelted stones at officers, injuring several. To manage the escalating tensions, additional police forces were deployed from nearby stations. Senior officers are overseeing efforts to apprehend the driver and bring the situation under control.
This accident marks yet another tragic incident, as just a few days prior, five other Kanwariyas were killed in a similar accident involving a truck in the same district. Efforts are being made to restore order and assist the families of the victims. The police have called for calm as they continue their investigation.