A tragic road accident near Pandit House in Kuthar claimed the life of Poornima (59), a pedestrian who was fatally struck by a car as she crossed the road after stepping off a bus. A resident of Pandit House, Poornima had just returned from assisting with her nephew’s upcoming wedding, scheduled for May 16, when the incident occurred.
The car involved was reportedly driven by a medical student, who allegedly lost control of the vehicle, leading to the fatal collision. Poornima died on the spot, leaving her family and the local community in deep mourning. What was meant to be a time of celebration has now turned into heartbreak for her relatives.
Residents blamed the poor condition of the Thokkottu–Mangaluru University Road, particularly near the Pandit House stretch, where pipeline work had left large potholes. Though some portions were recently resurfaced, a significant pothole remained unattended. Locals claim this may have contributed to the driver losing control and causing the accident.
Authorities from the Mangaluru South Traffic Police Station have registered a case and are investigating the circumstances that led to the mishap.
Poornima is survived by her husband and son. Her sudden death underscores the pressing need for road safety measures and better infrastructure maintenance, especially in busy, pedestrian-heavy areas.
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