A devastating road accident late on Saturday night claimed the lives of three persons and left several others injured in Panshkura, East Midnapore. The incident occurred when a speeding goods-laden truck, allegedly driven under the influence of alcohol, lost control on National Highway 16 and crashed onto the footpath, crushing several roadside shops.
According to police and local sources, the truck was travelling from Kharagpur towards Kolaghat when it veered off course near Siddha Bazar. Witnesses reported that the vehicle was moving at such high speed that it broke through iron barricades and ploughed into multiple shops.
“The driver and helper of the truck managed to flee after the mishap. The impact was so sudden that shop employees and customers present at the time had no chance to escape,” said a police officer.
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Three victims died instantly after being crushed under the truck’s wheels, while several others sustained serious injuries. The injured have been rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. All the deceased and injured are believed to be local residents.
Locals have alleged that the accident was caused by the driver’s reckless driving and intoxication. The busy market area, which had a significant number of people at the time, was left in chaos as the truck rammed into shop after shop before coming to a halt.
The accident also led to a traffic snarl on NH-16. Police from Panshkura police station arrived promptly, seized the truck, recovered the bodies and cleared the highway for traffic movement.
"We are investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of the crash. A search is going on to apprehend the driver and helper of the killer truck," said the police officer.
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