8 pilgrims killed, several injured as vehicle collides with tanker in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool

At least eight pilgrims, including five women, one child and two men, were killed and several others injured in a tragic road accident in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district early Thursday morning. The accident occurred near Chilakaladone village along National Highway 167 when a vehicle carrying devotees collided with a ready-mix tanker while travelling towards Mantralayam for darshan.

According to police, around 21 people were travelling in the vehicle when the collision took place. The impact of the crash was severe, leaving eight passengers dead on the spot and injuring more than 10 others. The victims have been identified as residents of Udayi village in Karnataka’s Chikkaballapur district, who were on a spiritual journey to the Sri Raghavendra Swamy temple.

Rescue teams and police personnel rushed to the scene soon after receiving information and carried out relief operations. The injured were initially shifted to nearby hospitals, with some later referred to Kurnool for advanced treatment. Authorities confirmed that several injured persons are undergoing treatment, while at least one is reported to be in stable condition.

The bodies of the deceased have been sent to the Government Hospital in Adoni for post-mortem examination. A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident. Preliminary findings suggest a head-on collision between the pilgrims’ vehicle and a tanker travelling from the opposite direction.

State Home Minister V. Anitha expressed deep grief over the incident, calling it a tragic loss of lives. She directed officials to ensure proper and immediate medical care for the injured and conveyed her condolences to the bereaved families. Further details are awaited as authorities continue their investigation.