A serious road accident on Kapurthala Road in Jalandhar left three labourers critically injured after a speeding car lost control and rammed into them while they were sitting by the roadside. The incident sparked panic in the area, with locals alleging that the driver was under the influence of alcohol. However, police have not confirmed the claim and say the exact cause of the accident is still under investigation.
Claims by eyewitnesses
According to eyewitnesses, the car was travelling at a high speed when it suddenly veered off the road and crashed into a roadside drain before hitting a tree and mowing down the labourers. The impact was so severe that the airbags of the vehicle deployed instantly, while the front portion of the car suffered extensive damage.
The three injured labourers were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital by local residents and emergency responders. Their condition is reported to be serious, and they are currently undergoing treatment
Denial of allegations by the accused driver
The driver, however, has denied allegations of rash or negligent driving. He claimed that the accident occurred after the car struck a damaged drain cover or an exposed iron rod on the road, causing the front tyre to burst. According to him, the sudden tyre blowout made the vehicle uncontrollable, resulting in the collision with the labourers. He maintained that he was driving at a normal speed and described the incident as an unfortunate accident.
Crowd at the accident site
Soon after the incident, a large number of people gathered at the spot, leading to chaos and a brief commotion. Some eyewitnesses accused the driver of being intoxicated and demanded strict action. Police officials have clarified that these allegations are being examined and that no conclusion will be drawn until the investigation, including any necessary medical examination and forensic findings, is completed.
Police action on the reported accident
On receiving information, a police team from Basti Bawa Khel Police Station, led by ASI Jagtar Singh, reached the scene and took the damaged vehicle into custody. The area was inspected, and evidence was collected to determine the sequence of events.
ASI in conversation with the media
Speaking to the media, ASI Jagtar Singh said that police are investigating every aspect of the case, including the driver's statement, eyewitness accounts, the condition of the road, and the possibility of mechanical failure. He added that appropriate legal action will be initiated based on the findings of the investigation
Increasing road safety concerns
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over speeding, road maintenance, and the safety of daily-wage labourers who often wait for work along busy roads. Residents have urged authorities to repair damaged road infrastructure and strengthen traffic enforcement to prevent similar accidents in the future.