Chennai, Dec 6 (NationPress) Tragically, five individuals lost their lives and seven others sustained injuries on Saturday when two vehicles collided near Keelakarai in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu. Authorities are concerned that the number of fatalities could increase as several injured parties are in critical condition.

According to law enforcement, one car was transporting Ayyappa pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh to Rameswaram, while the other vehicle was en route to Iraavadi.

The collision resulted in both vehicles being severely damaged, triggering a prompt response from locals who notified emergency services.

Initial investigations indicate that factors like driver fatigue or drowsiness could have played a role, particularly during late-night or early-morning travel.

A comprehensive inquiry has been initiated to ascertain the precise cause of this incident.

This incident comes on the heels of other deadly accidents that have recently alarmed the state.

In a recent major accident, two government buses collided head-on near Sivaganga district, leading to 11 fatalities, including women and a child, while over 20 others were injured.

Another incident involving private buses in Tenkasi district resulted in at least six deaths, among them five women, with several additional injuries reported.

These tragic events are part of a larger pattern of road fatalities in Tamil Nadu, which saw 18,347 deaths in 2023 and 18,074 in 2024, despite a slight decline.

The recent surge in fatalities has raised alarms among officials, safety experts, and the general public.

High-speed highways, particularly those connecting pilgrimage sites and industrial areas, have been identified as major risk zones.

Common causes of recent crashes include overspeeding, driver fatigue, insufficient rest breaks, and nighttime travel, highlighting systemic weaknesses.

In response, the state government has pledged to enhance driver safety training, enforce traffic regulations more strictly, and boost patrols in hazardous areas. With the pilgrimage season in full swing and many traveling long distances during odd hours, authorities have urged drivers to avoid late-night travel, take regular breaks, and adhere closely to traffic laws.

Strengthening enforcement and promoting safer driving practices are no longer optional; they are essential.