Mangaluru: Three persons were injured, including an auto-rickshaw driver who sustained grievous injuries, after a private express bus collided head-on with a three-wheeler at Kethikal near Vamanjoor on the evening of April 17.
Auto-rickshaw severely damaged in impact
Eyewitnesses and preliminary reports indicated that the front portion of the auto-rickshaw was completely mangled due to the force of the crash. The driver, who bore the brunt of the impact, suffered serious injuries and was reported to be in a critical condition.
Two passengers travelling in the auto-rickshaw also sustained injuries, though their condition is said to be stable. Meanwhile, passengers aboard the private bus reportedly escaped with only minor injuries, avoiding major harm despite the intensity of the collision.
Locals lead rescue efforts
Local residents were among the first to respond to the incident, rushing to the accident site immediately after the crash. They played a crucial role in rescuing the injured occupants from the damaged auto-rickshaw and arranging transportation to a nearby private hospital in Mangaluru.
The timely intervention by locals is believed to have helped prevent further complications for the injured, especially the auto-rickshaw driver who required urgent medical attention.
Police inspection and investigation underway
Personnel from the Mangaluru city police arrived at the scene soon after the incident and conducted an inspection. Authorities have begun an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the accident, including whether factors such as speeding, driver negligence or road conditions contributed to the collision.
Traffic movement in the area was briefly disrupted following the crash but was later restored after the damaged vehicles were cleared from the road.
Rising concerns over road safety
The incident has once again brought attention to road safety concerns in and around Mangaluru, particularly on busy routes connecting the city to nearby towns like Moodbidri. Accidents involving private buses and smaller vehicles such as auto-rickshaws have been reported in the past, raising questions about adherence to traffic norms and enforcement measures.
Authorities are expected to review the findings of the investigation and take necessary steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Conclusion
The collision at Kethikal underscores the risks faced by commuters on busy roads and highlights the need for stricter traffic regulation and awareness. As the injured continue to receive treatment, officials are working to determine responsibility and ensure accountability in the incident.