In a heart-wrenching incident, 18 people lost their lives and 19 others sustained injuries when a double-decker sleeper bus collided with a milk tanker on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway on Wednesday morning. The accident, which occurred around 5 am near Jojikot village in the Behta Mujhawar police station area, has led to a massive outpouring of grief and concern.

According to District Magistrate Gaurang Rathi, the bus, traveling from Motihari in Bihar to Delhi, was reportedly speeding when it hit the milk tanker from behind. The collision caused both vehicles to overturn, resulting in significant casualties and injuries. Among the deceased were 14 men, three women, and a child, as confirmed by Additional Director General of Police, Lucknow, S B Shiradkar.

The impact of the crash was so severe that passengers were thrown from the vehicle, leaving a scene of twisted metal, shattered glass, and scattered belongings. Visuals from the site depict the tragic aftermath, highlighting the need for stringent road safety measures.

Emergency services responded swiftly, with the injured being rushed to a nearby hospital where their conditions are reported to be stable. Authorities are working to identify the victims and have launched a probe into the cause of the accident. Bangarmau Circle Officer Arvind Kumar confirmed that the drivers of both vehicles were among those killed in the collision.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his deep sorrow over the incident and directed officials to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured. “The loss of lives in a road accident in Unnao district is extremely sad and heartbreaking. My condolences are with the bereaved families,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for those injured. “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the accident in Unnao. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon,” he said in a statement.

President Droupadi Murmu also extended her condolences, stating, “The news of the death of many people in a road accident on the Lucknow-Agra Expressway in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh is extremely sad. I express my deepest condolences to the family members of those who have become victims of such sudden death and wish for the speedy recovery of those injured.”

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for improved road safety measures and stricter enforcement of traffic laws. The Agra-Lucknow Expressway, a critical artery connecting major cities, has seen several accidents in the past, raising concerns over speeding and vehicle maintenance.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on providing support to the affected families and preventing such tragedies in the future. The community mourns the loss of life and hopes for the swift recovery of the injured.

  Accident, Agra-Lucknow Expressway, Road Safety, Tragic Incident, Uttar Pradesh