Patna: A tragic road accident on National Highway 19 in East Burdwan district of West Bengal claimed the lives of 11 people from Bihar and injured more than 20 others. The collision involved a bus carrying pilgrims returning from Deoghar and Gangasagar and a tractor trolley near Sarsawa Ghat.
Ten passengers died on the spot, while another succumbed later. The victims were residents of Sarsawa, Lalbegiya, and Chiraiya villages in Motihari district. Relatives described the accident as shocking and said it had left the entire community mourning.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed condolences to the bereaved families and directed the provision of an ex-gratia grant of Rs 2 lakh to each family of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to each of the injured. Officials were instructed to coordinate with West Bengal authorities to facilitate the return of the bodies and ensure treatment for the injured.
Motihari district administration responded immediately, with police and rescue teams reaching the site to begin relief operations. Preliminary reports suggest the accident may have been caused by excessive speed, though a detailed investigation is underway. Both Bihar and West Bengal administrations are cooperating to determine the exact cause.
