Udupi: A tragic road accident claimed the life of a 45-year-old woman after she was hit by a crane near Udyavar Guddeyangadi on National Highway 66 on the evening of March 26.
The deceased has been identified as Divya (45), a native of Karwar. The incident has raised concerns over pedestrian safety on busy highway stretches in the region.
Accident occurred during road crossing
According to reports, Divya was travelling towards Karwar in a car along with her daughter, who had recently been discharged from a hospital in Mangaluru.
The duo had reportedly taken a U-turn near Udyavar Balayipade and stopped at a hotel near Guddeyangadi for refreshments. While at the location, her daughter is said to have requested a cricket bat.
In an attempt to fulfil her daughter’s request, Divya tried to cross the busy National Highway 66 to reach the opposite side of the road.
Fatal collision with crane
During the crossing, a crane moving along the highway struck her, leading to severe injuries. The impact of the collision was significant, leaving her critically wounded on the spot.
Locals who witnessed the accident immediately rushed to her aid and arranged for her to be transported to a hospital in Udupi in a private vehicle. Despite efforts to save her, she succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.
Concerns over highway safety
The incident has once again highlighted the dangers faced by pedestrians on high-speed corridors like National Highway 66, especially in areas where proper crossing facilities are limited.
Residents have often raised concerns about the lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure such as foot overbridges, underpasses, and clear signage near busy junctions and roadside establishments.
Traffic movement on NH-66 is typically heavy, with a mix of passenger vehicles, heavy trucks, and construction equipment like cranes, making road crossing particularly risky.
Police likely to investigate
While detailed information regarding the crane driver and possible negligence is yet to be officially confirmed, authorities are expected to register a case and initiate an investigation into the circumstances leading to the accident.
Officials are also likely to examine whether safety norms were followed and if any lapses contributed to the incident.
Conclusion
The untimely death of Divya is a stark reminder of the risks pedestrians face on highways. The tragedy underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures and greater awareness to prevent such accidents in the future.