What Happened in Jabalpur? Two Dead and Many Injured in Labourers' Tragedy
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Two women tragically lost their lives due to the negligence of a speeding driver.
- Over a dozen others were injured in the incident.
- The victims were on a lunch break while working on the highway.
- The community has responded with anger and calls for justice.
- A manhunt for the driver is currently underway.
In a tragic event, an unidentified speeding vehicle struck a group of labourers on a national highway in the Barela police jurisdiction near Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, on January 18. The incident claimed the lives of two women instantly and left over a dozen others injured.
The labourers were taking a lunch break while painting grills and installing road dividers when the car barreled into them around 2 p.m.
Witnesses reported scenes of utter chaos and screams as the speeding car hit the group without any attempt to slow down before fleeing the scene, leaving the victims in disarray.
The deceased have been identified as Chainwati Bai (40) and Lachchho Bai (40), both from Biharia village in the Bijadandi police region of Mandla district, who had been working in Jabalpur.
According to police reports, both women died at the scene, while many others suffered serious injuries.
A total of 13 individuals were injured and were promptly transported to the district hospital (Jabalpur Medical College Hospital) via 108 ambulance services.
Some victims received minor treatment and were released following first aid, while others continue to receive care.
“They were enjoying their lunch after a day's work when the vehicle suddenly struck them,” police stated.
Senior police officials commented, “The driver fled the scene right after the incident. Police teams arrived quickly, and the injured were transported to the hospital. Medical staff confirmed two women were deceased on arrival, three are critically injured, while the others sustained minor wounds.”
The victims primarily hailed from the Mandla district.
Community members gathered at the site, expressing their anger and sorrow, while promptly notifying the authorities.
A case has been filed against the driver, who is currently evading capture, and a manhunt is underway to locate both the car and the perpetrator.
Investigative efforts by the police are ongoing to identify the vehicle and apprehend the driver. Authorities are encouraging anyone with relevant information to step forward.