HighwayAccident – Pune Couple Killed in Tanker Crash Near Khed Shivapur
HighwayAccident – A devastating road accident near the Khed Shivapur toll plaza on the Pune-Bengaluru National Highway claimed the lives of a married couple on Saturday, triggering traffic congestion and panic in the surrounding area. The victims were riding a two-wheeler when a speeding gas tanker reportedly rammed into their vehicle on the Satara-bound stretch of the highway.
Couple Dies Instantly After Heavy Impact
The deceased have been identified as Rajendra Baban More and Savita Rajendra More, residents of Warje Malwadi in Pune. According to police officials, the couple was traveling towards Satara when the accident occurred shortly after crossing the Khed Shivapur toll plaza.
Investigators said the tanker struck the two-wheeler with tremendous force, causing both riders to fall beneath the massive vehicle. Due to the intensity of the collision, the couple suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene before medical help could arrive.
Eyewitnesses Describe Chaotic Scene
People present near the accident site stated that both vehicles appeared to be moving at considerable speed moments before the crash. Initial findings suggest the tanker driver may have lost control, leading to the collision.
The impact reportedly threw the damaged two-wheeler several feet away from the highway. Passersby and nearby residents immediately rushed to help and informed local authorities. However, emergency responders soon confirmed that the victims could not be saved.
Public Anger Leads to Brief Tension
As news of the fatal accident spread, a large crowd gathered near the toll plaza. Witnesses said some angry locals damaged parts of the gas tanker in frustration over the incident. The situation remained tense for a short period before police personnel intervened and restored order in the area.
Authorities acted quickly to prevent further disruption on the busy highway and managed traffic movement to avoid long congestion. Vehicular movement on the Pune-Bengaluru route was later brought back to normal.
Police Detain Tanker Driver for Investigation
Police officials confirmed that the tanker driver, identified as Raj Kishan B., a resident of Tirupuram, has been taken into custody for questioning. A formal accident report has been prepared, and investigators are examining all aspects of the crash, including vehicle speed and road conditions at the time of the incident.
The bodies of the deceased were shifted to a nearby hospital for post-mortem examination. Authorities said further legal procedures are currently underway as part of the ongoing investigation.
Rising Concerns Over Highway Safety
The fatal collision has once again highlighted growing concerns regarding road safety and heavy vehicle movement on major highways around Pune. Frequent accidents involving tankers and high-speed vehicles have raised questions about enforcement of traffic regulations and driver monitoring on busy national routes.
Local commuters have often expressed concern about reckless driving and speeding near toll plazas, particularly on stretches witnessing dense traffic movement. Officials are expected to review the circumstances surrounding the latest accident as part of broader safety measures.