Tragedy struck the Raikot-Jagraon Road in the early hours of Thursday when a speeding car lost control near Bassian village and plunged into a water-filled pond, leaving three people dead and two others narrowly escaping with their lives.
Identification of the dedceased
The deceased have been identified as Balkar Singh, Vishal and Sandeep. According to preliminary information, all three were associated with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and were reportedly close associates of Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema.
Car Plunges Into Pond Around 1:15 AM
According to the available information, the five occupants were returning from Nakodar towards the Dirba area when the accident took place at around 1:15 AM. Near a turn at Bassian, the car reportedly went out of control at high speed, veered off the road and plunged into the pond.
The impact was severe, leaving the occupants trapped inside the vehicle. The accident triggered panic in the area as rescue efforts began in the darkness.
Police, Rescue Teams Reach Spot
Soon after receiving information about the crash, police and rescue teams reached the spot. After considerable effort, the car was pulled out and the occupants were rescued.
Three people had already died, while two others were brought out safely. The bodies were taken into police custody and shifted to the Government Hospital in Jagraon. Authorities are investigating the exact circumstances surrounding the crash.
While overspeeding and loss of control at the turn are being considered the initial causes, the final reason will be known only after the police investigation is completed.
Previous Accidents Put Road Safety Under Scanner
The tragedy has once again raised serious questions over road safety arrangements on the Raikot-Jagraon Road, particularly near Bassian.
Local residents claim that several accidents have taken place at the same location in the past and that complaints regarding the dangerous stretch have repeatedly been brought to the attention of the administration.
Residents say the absence of adequate warning signs, reflectors and protective barriers along the pond has made the stretch particularly dangerous, especially at night.
Three Families Left Devastated
The accident has plunged three families into grief and triggered mourning across the area. Residents are now demanding immediate safety measures at the accident-prone location.
The central question being raised by locals is simple: if authorities were already aware of previous accidents and complaints about the spot, why were stronger safety measures not put in place before another tragedy claimed three lives?
