Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday condoled the loss of lives in Kurnool tragedy as he described the accident as ‘deeply painful'. In the tragic incident, a goods vehicle collided with a tanker in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool district, claiming eight lives. The goods vehicle carrying 20 devotees was on the way to Mantralayam for darshan of Sri Raghavendra Swamy when it rammed into the tanker.
The post shared by Prime Minister's Office on X states, “The mishap in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh is deeply painful. I extend my condolences to those who have lost their loved ones and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
Announcing the aid, PM Modi said, “An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000.” Five women, minor girl and two men were killed while several others were injured in the fatal accident that occurred on 16 April.
"Eight devotees died on the spot, while several others sustained injuries and were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment," PTI quoted Yemmiganur Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) N Bhargavi as saying.
According to ANI report, around 10 to 12 people sustained injuries in the accident and were immediately rushed to Emmiganur Hospital for treatment. Critically injured individuals were referred to Kurnool Government General Hospital for better medical care.
According to Kurnool police officials, the deceased have been identified as pilgrims from Karnataka's Chikkamagaluru region. Police officials further noted that five victims died at the scene, while three others succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment at a hospital.
The accident occurred after the driver reportedly became drowsy while on wheels. The goods vehicle collided around 3 am on NH 167 when the driver drove in the wrong direction. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu offered his condolences to the families of the deceased as he instructed officials to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured.
President Draupadi Murmu in a post on X said, “The news of the tragic loss of lives in a road accident in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh is distressing. I extend my deep condolences to the bereaved families and pray for quick recovery of those injured.”
