Gwalior, OCT 18: Fifteen people were killed and nearly 25 others sustained injuries when a heavy truck hit a crowd of worshippers gathered for midnight Navratri prayers at the Sheetla Mata temple in Gwalior.
According to police officials, the paddy-laden truck breached a no-entry zone on Chinar Road in the early hours of Sunday before striking waiting pilgrims and small roadside shops. The vehicle finally came to a halt after slamming into the temple gate, causing structural collapse and trapping multiple people beneath the wreckage.
Investigating teams declared that an initial assessment suggests possible brake failure, which led the driver to lose control before escaping the site. Officials affirmed that active search measures are underway to arrest the driver, while strict action has been initiated against duty officers responsible for traffic management along the route.
In the wake of the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared financial support for the affected families, while Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced comprehensive relief packages including Rs 4 lakh for the families of the deceased and full coverage of hospital expenses for injured devotees. Authorities asserted that law enforcement and rescue teams remain on high alert across the district.
