Surendranagar/New Delhi, April 13 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan extended their heartfelt condolences on Monday following a tragic road accident in the Surendranagar district of Gujarat, which resulted in the deaths of seven individuals from a group of pilgrims early that morning.

During her two-day visit to the state for various academic engagements, the President shared her sorrow on X, stating: “I am deeply saddened by the news of the fatal road accident in Surendranagar district, Gujarat. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families mourning their loved ones. I wish for the quick recovery of those injured.”

The Vice President expressed similar sentiments, saying: “I am profoundly saddened by the loss of life in this unfortunate accident in Surendranagar, Gujarat. My sincere condolences to the grieving families, and I pray for the rapid recovery of the injured.”

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his grief, stating: “The incident in Surendranagar district is truly distressing. My heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. I offer prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.”

As per officials, the accident took place around 1:20 A.M. on the Lakhtar-Viramgam highway, between the villages of Chharad and Bhaskarpara near Lakhtar, when a group of foot pilgrims was struck from behind by a speeding dumper truck.

The victims, part of the Bharwad community, were en route from Gadhka village in Rajkot district to Viramgam for temple darshan and a flag-hoisting ceremony, as part of a larger gathering of approximately 700 devotees.

At the scene, seven members of the Mundhva family, including five women and two men, tragically lost their lives.

The deceased have been identified as Masabhai Mundhva, Jaluben Mundhva, Raniben Lambariya, and Vajiben Mundhva, among others.

At least four individuals suffered serious injuries and were taken to a hospital, with some reports indicating that as many as 10 to 12 pilgrims may have been affected.

Witnesses reported that the truck was traveling at a high speed and did not slow down. One observer noted that a vehicle was stalled by the roadside—likely due to a tire change—and the pilgrims were walking nearby when another truck struck them without braking.

Police and emergency services, including the 108 ambulance team, arrived promptly to transport the victims to a local government hospital for necessary medical examinations and treatment.

A case has been filed against the truck driver, who fled the scene, and an investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.