What Compensation is the Jharkhand Government Providing for Road Accident Victims in Deoghar?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Jharkhand government has pledged Rs 1 lakh compensation for deceased victims' families.
- Injured individuals will receive Rs 20,000 each.
- A comprehensive investigation is being initiated to analyze the accident.
- Efforts to improve safety measures for pilgrims are underway.
- All medical care for the injured is provided free of charge.
Deoghar (Jharkhand), July 29 (NationPress) The Jharkhand government has declared a compensation of Rs 1 lakh for each family of the deceased and Rs 20,000 for those injured in a devastating road accident that took place in Mohanpur, Deoghar, on Tuesday morning.
Following the instructions of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, State Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari hurried to Deoghar to visit the injured individuals at the Sadar Hospital.
He later assessed the ongoing treatment arrangements and confirmed that all medical services — including tests and medicines — are being provided free of charge.
The tragic accident occurred when a bus transporting Kanwariyas collided with a truck loaded with gas cylinders. Six pilgrims tragically lost their lives while 23 others were injured in the incident.
Initial reports indicated a death toll of 18, a figure also mentioned by Godda MP Nishikant Dubey. However, officials later verified that the confirmed death toll was six.
Manoj Kumar Pandey, spokesperson for the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, criticized Nishikant Dubey, stating that this matter should not be politicized. "The loss of lives is profoundly saddening and truly unfortunate. Based on the information available, it seems to have been an accident caused by human error due to a collision between two vehicles. While this incident is tragic, it is equally disheartening to witness the opposition politicizing such a sensitive situation."
The Kanwariyas were reportedly en route to Basukinath after offering water at Baba Baidyanath Dham when the accident occurred.
Seven critically injured individuals have been referred to AIIMS Deoghar, where special arrangements have been made for their treatment.
Chief Minister Soren has instructed officials to ensure the best possible care for the injured and provide all necessary support to the affected families.
Health Minister Ansari mentioned that the district administration has been directed to ensure the safe return of all injured pilgrims to their homes after they recover.
Describing the incident as "unfortunate," the Minister emphasized that the government is fully vigilant regarding the safety of pilgrims visiting Baba Dham and is taking all appropriate measures to prevent such accidents.
Deoghar Deputy Commissioner Naman Priyash Lakra announced that a special committee is being established to investigate the incident. Should any lapses or negligence be identified, strict actions will be taken against those responsible, including officials and vehicle operators.
Additionally, safety inspections for vehicles and drivers will be intensified in the fair area to prevent future occurrences.