Accident – Tractor Trolley Falls Into Canal, Three Women Dead

Accident – Three women lost their lives and several others were injured after a tractor trolley carrying devotees overturned and fell into a canal in Uttar Pradesh’s Kushinagar district on Wednesday evening, according to police officials.

Incident Near Siswa Regulator

The accident took place around 8 pm near the Siswa regulator, which falls under the Khadda police station area. Authorities said the trolley, carrying nearly 25 passengers, suddenly lost balance and plunged into the Gandak canal, triggering panic among those on board.

Devotees Were En Route to Religious Fair

Initial reports indicate that the group of devotees had started their journey from Mamkhor Barhara village in the Ghughli region of Maharajganj district. They were travelling to attend the Chaitra Ram Navami Varni fair at Bhaisaha Ghat when the mishap occurred.

The journey, which was meant to be a religious visit, turned tragic within moments as the vehicle lost control before reaching its destination.

Mechanical Failure Suspected

Police officials stated that early findings suggest a mechanical failure as the likely cause of the accident. The hook that connected the trolley to the tractor reportedly broke during transit. This caused the trolley to detach, overturn, and fall into the canal.

Investigators are examining the vehicle and gathering further evidence to confirm the exact sequence of events that led to the incident.

Casualties and Injuries

A total of 21 people sustained injuries in the accident and were immediately taken to Kushinagar Medical College for treatment. Doctors confirmed that Meera Devi, aged 57, died shortly after being admitted.

Later, two more women—Kismati Devi, 51, and Nirmala, 45—succumbed to their injuries during treatment. With these deaths, the total number of fatalities rose to three.

Hospital officials said several injured individuals remain under medical care, though most are reported to be in stable condition.

Survivors Recount Escape

According to Khadda Station House Officer Sandeep Singh, some passengers managed to escape by jumping off the trolley before it fell into the canal. Their quick reaction helped them avoid serious injury.

Local residents and emergency responders also played a role in rescuing victims from the water and arranging immediate transport to nearby medical facilities.

Investigation Underway

Police have sent the bodies of the deceased for post-mortem examination as part of standard procedure. Meanwhile, a detailed investigation is ongoing to determine responsibility and assess whether safety guidelines were followed.

Officials are also expected to review transport practices involving tractor trolleys, which are often used in rural areas despite safety concerns.

Broader Safety Concerns

Incidents involving overcrowded or improperly secured vehicles continue to raise questions about road safety in rural regions. Tractor trolleys, though commonly used for transportation, are not designed for carrying passengers, making them vulnerable to accidents.

Authorities have reiterated the importance of adhering to safety norms and using appropriate vehicles, especially for group travel.