Patna: Traffic movement resumed on the Patna bypass after a blockade lasting about three hours following the death of a 27-year-old man in a road accident near the Badi Pahari-Chhoti Pahari intersection under Agamkuan police station limits.
The accident triggered a protest in which a large crowd blocked the highway, damaged vehicles and set an empty bus on fire. Police and fire brigade teams were deployed at the spot to restore order and clear the road.
Youth Killed While Crossing Road
The deceased has been identified as Manish, alias Upendra, a resident of the Pahari area. According to local residents, he was crossing the road when a speeding bus hit him.
The impact was severe and the man died at the spot, according to eyewitnesses. Police later conducted an inquest and sent the body to Nalanda Medical College and Hospital for post-mortem examination.
Protest Escalates Into Arson
Following the accident, a large number of people gathered at the intersection and blocked the National Highway. The protest disrupted traffic in both directions, resulting in long queues of vehicles.
The situation later escalated, with protesters allegedly pelting stones and vandalising vehicles. An empty bus was also set on fire. More than half a dozen vehicles were reportedly damaged, while several two-wheelers were targeted.
Police teams from Agamkuan, Bypass and Traffic police stations reached the area to control the situation. A fire brigade team also arrived and extinguished the burning bus.
Traffic Restored, Vehicles Being Removed
Police subsequently cleared the blockade and restored traffic movement on the bypass. Cranes have been brought to the spot to remove vehicles damaged or burnt during the protest.
A heavy police deployment remains in the area, with personnel keeping watch to prevent further disruption.
ASP Rajkishore Singh said the law-and-order situation that emerged after the accident had been brought under control. He said legal action would be taken against those found responsible.
Police Identify Those Involved
Police have stepped up efforts to identify people allegedly involved in the vandalism and arson. Further action will follow based on the investigation, officials said.
The administration has urged residents to maintain peace and avoid spreading rumours as the situation returns to normal.
Residents Seek Underpass
Residents have also demanded an underpass connecting Badi Pahari and Chhoti Pahari. They said the busy intersection poses difficulties for pedestrians and that an underpass could help reduce the risk of accidents while allowing traffic to move more smoothly.
