Mangaluru: A mother and her minor daughter were seriously injured after a trailer reportedly rammed into them while they were waiting for a bus near Pavanaje temple in Mulki on Friday evening, February 6. The injured have been identified as Kusuma, a teacher, and her daughter Sumalatha (14). Police said the trailer was travelling from Mangaluru towards Udupi when the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle and struck them at the roadside.
According to preliminary information from police, the incident occurred when the two were standing near the roadside bus waiting point at Pavanaje. The impact of the collision left both injured, with the mother sustaining serious injuries and the daughter suffering comparatively minor injuries.
Accident occurred near temple bus waiting point
Police sources said the victims had been waiting for a bus near the temple area, which usually sees moderate evening traffic, including heavy vehicles moving along the highway stretch. At around evening hours, the trailer moving in the direction of Udupi allegedly veered off its path and hit the pedestrians standing near the roadside.
Eyewitnesses in the area reportedly rushed to help immediately after the collision. Locals alerted emergency services and assisted in shifting the injured to a nearby hospital for treatment. Traffic movement in the area was briefly affected following the incident.
Initial findings suggest that the heavy vehicle driver may have lost control, though the exact cause — whether due to speed, mechanical issue, driver error, or road conditions — is yet to be officially confirmed.
Injuries and treatment
Police said Kusuma sustained serious injuries in the accident and was admitted for treatment under medical supervision. Her daughter Sumalatha suffered minor injuries and was also treated. Doctors are monitoring their condition, and further updates are expected based on medical evaluation.
Sources indicated that timely assistance from bystanders helped ensure that the injured were shifted quickly for medical care, which is often critical in road accident cases involving heavy vehicles.
Family members were informed soon after the incident, and statements are expected to be recorded as part of the routine investigation process.
Police inspection and vehicle seizure
Mangaluru North traffic police inspector Shivakumar visited the accident spot and conducted a detailed inspection. The scene was examined to understand the trajectory of the vehicle, point of impact, and roadside conditions.
Police confirmed that the trailer involved in the accident has been seized for further examination. Mechanical inspection of the vehicle may be carried out to determine whether any technical fault contributed to the crash.
The driver is expected to be questioned as part of the probe. A case has been registered, and further investigation is underway to establish responsibility and sequence of events.
Rising concern over roadside safety
The incident has once again highlighted safety risks faced by pedestrians waiting along busy roadside stretches, especially where there are no designated bus bays or protective barriers. Areas near temples and junctions often see mixed traffic flow, including heavy trucks and trailers, increasing vulnerability for people standing close to the carriageway.
Traffic experts note that heavy vehicles require longer stopping distances and better lane discipline. Even a brief loss of control can lead to severe consequences for pedestrians and two-wheeler riders.
Officials frequently advise commuters to stand at a safe distance from the main road while waiting for buses and to use marked stops wherever available. There have also been repeated calls for improved roadside infrastructure, including sheltered bus bays set back from highways.
Investigation continues
Police said further action will follow based on medical reports, vehicle inspection findings, and witness statements. Any violations related to rash or negligent driving, if established, will be included in the case.
Authorities also reiterated the need for cautious driving, particularly on stretches with pedestrian activity and roadside waiting points. With the investigation in progress, more details are expected in the coming days.