Did the Supreme Court Take Suo Moto Cognisance of the Phalodi Road Accident?
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court's attention has been drawn to the tragic Phalodi accident in Rajasthan, where 15 pilgrims lost their lives in a horrific crash. This incident highlights critical road safety issues that demand urgent attention. Will this lead to necessary reforms to prevent future tragedies?
Key Takeaways
- Supreme Court's intervention highlights the importance of road safety.
- Tragic loss of 15 lives underscores urgent need for reforms.
- Government's response includes compensation for victims' families.
- Local grievances point to systemic issues affecting road safety.
- Case hearing scheduled for November 10.
New Delhi, Nov 8 (NationPress) The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of the devastating Phalodi accident that occurred in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan, claiming the lives of at least 15 pilgrims, which included four children and 10 women. The tragedy unfolded when a tempo traveller collided with a stationary trailer truck near Matoda village late last week.
According to the causelist available on the apex court's website, a bench comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi is set to hear the case titled "In Re: Phalodi Accident" on November 10.
A group of pilgrims from the Sursagar locality in Jodhpur was returning from Kolayat in Bikaner when their vehicle crashed into the trailer parked on the roadside.
The collision was so intense that the front section of the tempo traveller was utterly crushed, resulting in rescue teams facing significant challenges to free the trapped victims.
As reported by the police, at least 18 fatalities have been confirmed thus far, with numerous others suffering serious injuries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident, describing it as "deeply saddening", and announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives and Rs 50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund.
Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma conveyed his condolences and instructed officials to provide immediate medical assistance, calling the loss of lives "heart-rending".
State Minister Madan Dilawar declared a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for each bereaved family, with Rs 25 lakh designated for families who lost three or more members.
The seriously injured are set to receive Rs 2 lakh, while those with minor injuries will get Rs 1 lakh, as stated by the Chief Minister's Office.
This tragedy has reignited discussions surrounding road safety on the Bharatmala Expressway.
Local residents claim that insufficient lighting, poor signage, and illegal parking of heavy vehicles make nighttime travel hazardous.
Community members assert that truck drivers frequently park along the expressway to rest, contributing to the occurrence of fatal accidents.
Point of View
It's imperative to approach this tragedy with compassion while also advocating for accountability. The loss of life in the Phalodi incident underscores the urgent need for improved road safety measures. Our focus should remain on ensuring that such accidents are addressed with both immediate relief for the victims' families and long-term solutions to prevent future occurrences.
NationPress
10/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the Phalodi accident?
The Phalodi accident involved a tempo traveller crashing into a stationary trailer truck, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 pilgrims.
How many casualties were reported?
At least 18 fatalities have been confirmed, with numerous others sustaining serious injuries.
What actions have been taken by authorities?
Prime Minister Modi announced compensation for the victims' families, while Rajasthan's Chief Minister directed officials to provide immediate medical assistance.
What are the concerns raised about road safety?
Local residents have raised concerns about inadequate lighting, poor signage, and illegal parking of heavy vehicles, contributing to hazardous conditions.
When will the Supreme Court hear the case?
The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the matter on November 10.
