Road Accident – Cargo Complex Crash Claims Worker’s Life
Road Accident – A 46-year-old logistics employee lost his life on Monday evening after a speeding truck struck him inside the Sahar Air Cargo Complex near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Vile Parle.
Fatal Collision Inside Cargo Premises
The tragic incident took place around 7:45 pm in front of the Pharma Zone within the cargo complex premises. According to police officials, the victim was hit by a truck reportedly moving at high speed. The impact was severe, and the vehicle’s wheel is said to have passed over the man’s lower body, causing critical injuries.
The deceased has been identified as Ganesh Pandurang Lotankar, 46. He had been employed for nearly two decades with Gordon Woodroffe Logistics Limited, a company engaged in cargo documentation and air freight clearance operations at the Sahar Air Cargo Complex.
Victim’s Background and Family
Lotankar lived in Nalasopara with his wife and son. His residence was located near Divine School in Mahesh Park on Tulinj Road, Laxmi Kawale Chawl area. His brother, Santosh Lotankar, stays in Ramnagar, Goregaon.
Family members described him as a dedicated employee who had spent 20 years handling cargo-related documentation at the airport facility. Colleagues said he was known for his punctuality and commitment to work.
Incident Occurred During Work Hours
Police sources said that around 6:45 pm, Lotankar was crossing a road inside the cargo complex near the Pharma Zone to complete official paperwork related to cargo clearance. At that moment, an Eicher company truck allegedly rammed into him.
The force of the collision left him severely injured. Bystanders and co-workers immediately arranged for medical assistance, and he was rushed to Cooper Hospital for emergency treatment.
Declared Dead at Hospital
Despite swift efforts to provide medical care, doctors at Cooper Hospital declared him dead on arrival. Hospital authorities informed the police, following which officers from Sahar Police Station reached the spot to begin a preliminary inquiry.
The area where the accident occurred falls under the jurisdiction of the Sahar Police, who have since registered a case related to rash and negligent driving resulting in death.
Driver Flees After Accident
Based on a complaint lodged by Santosh Lotankar, police have filed a First Information Report against the unidentified truck driver. Investigators stated that the driver did not stop to assist the injured man and reportedly left the scene immediately after the accident without notifying authorities.
Officials confirmed that they have obtained the truck’s registration number and are working to trace the driver. Surveillance footage from the cargo complex and surrounding areas is also being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Investigation Underway
Police said efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the absconding driver. Authorities are also examining whether speed regulations and safety protocols within the cargo premises were followed at the time of the incident.
The Sahar Air Cargo Complex, located near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, handles large volumes of international cargo daily, with multiple heavy vehicles operating within the premises. The incident has once again drawn attention to road safety compliance and vehicle movement monitoring inside high-traffic industrial zones.
Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.