A journey to the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, took a tragic turn for 70 pilgrims from Odisha when their bus met with an accident late last night. At least 35 passengers were injured after the bus crashed into a stationary sand-laden truck. Reports suggest that the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel, leading to the mishap.
The accident happened around 12:50 am near Mohania in Bihar’s Kaimur district, close to the Bihar-Uttar Pradesh border. The bus was carrying pilgrims from Odisha’s Balasore district to the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj.
Among the injured, three are in critical condition. Authorities have rushed all the injured passengers to nearby hospitals for treatment. Further updates on their recovery are awaited.
Initial reports suggest that the driver, Sriram, may have fallen asleep while driving, which led to the accident. Local authorities and emergency teams quickly reached the spot and provided help. The injured pilgrims were immediately taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, with some needing intensive care due to serious injuries.
Among the injured, Raj Kishore Sahu from Naguana, Subas Behera from Kukudia, and Bapi Samal from Phulbani are in critical condition and are being treated at Varanasi Government Hospital in Uttar Pradesh. The rest of the injured passengers are receiving treatment at the Subdivisional Hospital. Authorities are closely monitoring their condition.
Important Safety Measures for Pilgrims Traveling to Kumbh Mela
Following recent accidents, authorities are stressing the need for safety precautions for pilgrims traveling to the Kumbh Mela. The Uttar Pradesh government has put a detailed safety plan in place, including more police presence, better roads, and improved medical facilities along key routes to Prayagraj.
To ensure safer travel, the government has also set guidelines for bus operators and drivers. These include mandatory rest breaks for drivers and regular vehicle checks to prevent mishaps. A centralized control room has been set up to monitor pilgrim movements and respond quickly in case of emergencies.
Technology is also playing a role in making travel safer, with GPS tracking for vehicles and real-time traffic updates helping authorities manage the flow of pilgrims efficiently. Authorities urge all travelers to follow safety guidelines and stay alert during their journey.
Odisha Government Steps Up Safety Measures for Pilgrims After Bus Accident
The recent bus accident has caused worry among pilgrims from Odisha planning to visit the Kumbh Mela. In response, the Odisha government has taken steps to ensure the safety of its residents traveling to Prayagraj.
To assist pilgrims, the government has set up helpline numbers and deployed liaison officers in Uttar Pradesh to provide support. Authorities are also working with transport officials to ensure buses are well-maintained and drivers are properly trained.
Additionally, the state government is exploring the option of running special trains for pilgrims, reducing the need for long-distance bus travel. These measures aim to make the journey safer and more comfortable for everyone traveling from Odisha.
Also Read – Prayagraj: PM Modi describes the Maha Kumbh as a ‘great ritual of unity’ while unveiling projects worth over ₹5,500 crore
