Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh), October 2: At least 26 people died and several were critically injured after a tractor-trailer overturned and fell into a pond near a village in Kanpur district of Uttar Pradesh on Saturday.
According to District Magistrate Vishak G Ayyar, most of the victims were women and children and the toll is expected to go up.
The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday evening near Bhadeuna village located within the Saar police station limits. The tractor-trolley carrying around 50 people was on its way to Ghatampur after the passengers attended a "mundan" ceremony at the Chandrika Devi temple in Fatehpur.
"A total of 26 people have lost their lives and others are injured. The pilgrims were returning from Chandika Devi temple in Fatehpura. The injured people have been sent to Hallet hospital. The investigation is underway. Rescue work has been completed," the District Magistrate, Kanpur, said.
He went on to say that over a dozen people were killed on the spot.
Following the accident, police rushed to the scene and started the rescue operation with locals.
Also Read | PUC certificate must to buy petrol, diesel in Delhi from Oct 25
The injured were immediately sent to the community health centre for treatment. Five people were injured and taken to Kanpur Hallet Hospital.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to each of the deceased's next of kin, while the injured will receive Rs 50,000.
"Distressed by the tractor-trolley mishap in Kanpur. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their near and dear ones. Prayers with the injured. The local administration is providing all possible assistance to the affected," the PMO said on Twitter.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also stated that he has instructed the senior officers to reach the spot immediately.
"The road accident in Kanpur district is very heart-wrenching. The District Magistrate and other senior officers have been directed to reach the spot immediately and conduct relief and rescue operations on a war footing and make arrangements for proper treatment of the injured. Wishing a speedy recovery to the injured," CM Yogi said on Twitter.
"The loss of life in this accident is very sad. My condolences are with the bereaved family. Praying to Lord Shri Ram to grant the departed souls a place at his feet and the families of the dead to bear this unfathomable loss," he further said.
Also Read | Delhi HC dismisses Satyender Jain's plea challenging transfer of money laundering case
-PTC News