By News Karnataka
Copyright newskarnataka
At least two people were killed and nine others injured on Monday evening when a speeding truck lost control and ploughed into a crowd in Shikshak Nagar on Airport Road, Indore. The impact also set off a fire after the truck rammed into a motorcycle, trapping it beneath its wheels. The blaze soon engulfed the truck, sparking panic among onlookers.
How the accident unfolded
According to eyewitnesses, the truck was being driven recklessly when it first hit a bike and then rammed into other vehicles and pedestrians. A motorcycle caught fire, which quickly spread to the truck itself. Videos of the accident circulating on social media show chaos at the site, with bystanders rushing to help victims even as flames rose from the vehicles.
Police and fire services were immediately called to the spot. The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, including Geetanjali Hospital, where many were admitted in critical condition.
Death toll could rise
Officials confirmed two deaths late on Monday, with fears that the toll may increase as some injured are reported to be in serious condition. Additional commissioner of police Amit Singh said the deceased have not yet been identified.
“A truck coming in at speed hit a bike first and later others. The truck driver has been arrested and he is being interrogated by the police,” ACP Singh told reporters.
Eyewitness Subhasha Soni, a local resident, alleged that the driver’s rash driving and subsequent fire made the situation worse. “The truck’s tyres caught fire, and people began falling as it ploughed into vehicles. My brother-in-law’s legs were severed. He was rushed to hospital,” she said.
Driver arrested, police probe underway
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone-1) Krishna Lalchandani confirmed that the driver was heavily inebriated at the time of the accident. “The truck driver is in police custody and has been sent for medical examination. He lost control of the vehicle due to intoxication,” Lalchandani told ANI.
The police have launched a detailed investigation to determine how the heavy vehicle entered the city during peak hours, given that trucks are typically restricted from entering before 11 pm.
Government response
Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav expressed grief over the incident and directed authorities to ensure immediate and proper medical treatment for the injured. The Additional Chief Secretary (Home) was instructed to visit Indore to gather detailed information about the tragedy and oversee relief measures.
The chief minister also ordered a preliminary inquiry into the circumstances leading to the accident, particularly why a truck was allowed to ply in a busy city zone before the permitted hours. “I am in constant touch with the Indore administration. No lapses will be tolerated in the treatment of the injured, and the state government will provide full support to all affected citizens,” Yadav said in a statement.
Rising concern over road safety
The incident has reignited concerns about road safety in Indore, where the rapid entry of heavy vehicles into crowded areas has often caused accidents. Residents and civic activists have demanded stricter enforcement of traffic restrictions to prevent such tragedies.
While police have taken the truck driver into custody and the government has promised swift action, the tragedy has highlighted persistent issues of rash driving, enforcement lapses, and weak safety monitoring of heavy vehicles in urban areas. With at least two confirmed deaths and several injured, the city of Indore is grappling with yet another reminder of the urgent need for road safety reforms.
