What Happened in the Fatal Bus Collision in Tiruvarur?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Four pilgrims lost their lives due to a road accident in Tiruvarur.
- Three others are critically injured and being treated.
- The victims were traveling to the Velankanni Basilica.
- Initial investigations point to driver fatigue.
- The accident highlights the ongoing issue of road safety in Tamil Nadu.
Chennai, May 4 (NationPress) Tragically, four individuals from Kerala lost their lives, and three others suffered serious injuries in a devastating road accident early Sunday morning in Tiruvarur, Tamil Nadu.
As per police reports, the victims were in an Omni van that collided head-on with a Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) bus near Koradacheri around 4 a.m.
All seven passengers in the van hailed from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, and were making their way to the Velankanni Mother Mary Church for a pilgrimage.
Sadly, four individuals—Rajinath, Rajesh, Sajith, and Rahul—died instantly, while the remaining three were critically injured and transported to Tiruvarur Government Hospital.
The hospital authorities confirmed that the injured individuals are in critical condition and receiving urgent care. The injured have been identified as Rajinas, Sabi, and Sunil.
Dr. S. Manoharan, the medical officer on duty at Tiruvarur Government Hospital, stated, “We received three patients with multiple fractures, head injuries, and internal bleeding. Our team is actively monitoring and treating them. Their condition remains critical, and we have notified their families.”
Eyewitnesses said the van seemed to lose control before veering into the path of the bus heading toward Thanjavur.
“The impact was tremendous. Locals hurried to assist, but the van was utterly mangled,” remarked R. Kannan, a local resident who participated in the rescue efforts.
Police indicated that initial investigations suggest driver fatigue or drowsiness may have played a role in the crash. A thorough investigation is ongoing to ascertain the precise cause.
The bodies of the deceased have been sent to Tiruvarur District Hospital for autopsies.
The Velankanni Basilica, located in the Nagapattinam district, is one of the most frequented Christian pilgrimage sites in South India, drawing countless devotees each year, particularly from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The route to Velankanni often experiences heavy traffic, especially during weekends and festive periods, leading to a notable increase in road accidents in recent years.
Official statistics indicate that Tamil Nadu has one of the highest road accident rates in India annually, with fatigue and overspeeding being significant contributors. More updates are forthcoming.