Katihar/Patna: At least 10 people were killed and several others injured in a road accident in Katihar on Saturday evening after a bus collided head-on with a pickup vehicle on National Highway 31.
Police said the victims were residents of Purnia and were returning home when the accident occurred near Basgada Chowk under the Kodha police station area.
Collision on NH-31
According to officials, the pickup vehicle was carrying 35 to 40 people, many of them from a tribal community, who were returning after attending a fair and participating in a religious event.
Eyewitnesses said a speeding bus coming from the opposite direction rammed into the vehicle, leaving the pickup mangled and causing multiple fatalities at the scene.
Casualties and rescue
“Ten people have died and around 25 others have sustained injuries,” said Ranjan Kumar Singh, adding that the injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Police reached the spot soon after being alerted and, with the help of local residents, carried out rescue operations. The bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem examination.
Allegations and investigation
Local residents alleged that the bus driver was driving at high speed and may have been under the influence of alcohol, though officials said the exact cause of the accident would be determined after investigation.
Public anger over frequent accidents
The incident triggered anger among locals, who claimed that accidents are frequent in the area due to lack of enforcement and preventive measures.
Residents briefly protested at the site, demanding stricter traffic control and better monitoring to prevent such incidents.
Authorities said further investigation is underway to ascertain responsibility and take appropriate action.
