Just days before her planned retirement after 35 years of dedicated government service, Prasannakumari, Employment Officer at Mannarkkad Employment Exchange, was fatally run over by a private bus inside the Mannarkkad Municipal Bus Stand on Thursday morning. The 56-year-old, known for her meticulous work and warm relationships with colleagues, was hit by the bus as it moved out after dropping passengers, and succumbed to her injuries despite being rushed to the hospital.

What was meant to be a day of celebration turned somber, as the retirement party pandal set up at her home transformed into a funeral venue. Prasannakumari had personally arranged the event, inviting over 150 guests and was looking forward to retiring after a fulfilling career that began as a Lower Division Clerk and culminated in her promotion as Employment Officer.

Unmarried, she lived with her mother, brother, and family, and is also survived by three sisters. Her body was laid for public homage at the mini civil station in Mannarkkad, where she served with dedication and was deeply respected.