Tragic Accident Claims Seven Lives of Pilgrims on Gujarat Highway
Synopsis
In a heart-wrenching incident, seven pilgrims from the Bharwad community lost their lives after a speeding truck collided with them on the Lakhtar-Viramgam highway in Gujarat. Eyewitnesses report the truck was traveling at high speed, resulting in a devastating accident that has left many injured.
Key Takeaways
Seven pilgrims from the Bharwad community were killed.
The accident occurred around 1:20 a.m. .
The victims were part of a larger group of 700 devotees .
The truck driver fled the scene after the incident.
Local officials are calling for enhanced road safety measures.
Surendranagar, April 13 (NationPress) In a tragic incident, seven individuals from a Bharwad community pilgrimage lost their lives and numerous others were injured after a fast-moving truck struck them on the Lakhtar-Viramgam highway in Gujarat's Surendranagar district during the early hours of Monday.
The collision occurred around 1:20 a.m. between the villages of Chharad and Bhaskarpara, as a group of foot pilgrims journeying from Gadhka village in Rajkot towards Viramgam for a temple visit and a flag-hoisting ceremony was hit from behind by a dumper truck.
The deceased were identified as members of the Mundhva family and were part of a larger gathering of approximately 700 devotees participating in the pilgrimage.
All seven fatalities included five women and two men, who died instantly.
The victims were recognized as Masabhai Mundhva, Jaluben Mundhva, Raniben Lambariya, and Vajiben Mundhva, among others.
At least four individuals sustained serious injuries and were taken to the hospital, with some reports suggesting that up to 10 to 12 pilgrims may have been affected.
Eyewitness accounts indicated that the truck was traveling at a high velocity and did not decelerate.
One observer mentioned that a vehicle was stopped on the roadside, possibly due to a tire change, and the pilgrims were walking nearby when “another truck came without braking and ran over them.”
The force of the collision was devastating, leading to bodies strewn across the highway.
A relative of the deceased expressed, “We had a muhurta at 8 a.m. to hoist the flag, so we were walking even at night.”
He added, “Around 1:20 a.m., the incident occurred. Nine individuals were struck, and seven died. One was my elder uncle’s son, one was my sister, and two were our daughters-in-law.”
Authorities, including police and emergency services with the 108 ambulance team, arrived promptly at the scene to transport the victims to the local government hospital for post-mortem examinations and medical treatment.
A case has been registered against the truck driver, who fled the scene, and an investigation is currently underway.
Local MLA P.K. Parmar, who visited the site, reported that the group had departed after offering prayers and was en route to Viramgam and subsequently to Mera village.
The Lakhtar-Viramgam highway has seen a troubling trend of accidents in recent months, with residents raising concerns over speeding vehicles and road safety along this route.
Point of View
A route that has witnessed multiple accidents in recent months. The loss of seven lives is a stark reminder of the need for stricter traffic regulations and increased awareness among drivers.
NationPress
8 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the accident on the Lakhtar-Viramgam highway?
The accident was caused by a speeding truck that struck a group of pilgrims walking along the highway.
How many people were killed in the accident?
Seven people, including five women and two men, lost their lives in the tragic incident.
What were the pilgrims doing at the time of the accident?
The pilgrims were traveling from Gadhka village to Viramgam for a temple darshan and a flag-hoisting ceremony.
What is being done about the truck driver?
A case has been registered against the truck driver, who fled the scene, and an investigation is ongoing.
Are there any safety concerns on the Lakhtar-Viramgam highway?
Yes, local residents have expressed concerns about speeding vehicles and road safety on this highway.
