A major road accident shook Salt Lake’s Webel More junction on Wednesday when a Route 215 private bus, en route to Howrah from Salt Lake, rammed into three stationary vehicles waiting at a red light. Eyewitnesses reported that the bus was speeding and involved in a road race with another vehicle at the time of the incident.
Authorities suspect that the driver was under the influence of alcohol, and his reckless behavior led to the collision. In a bid to jump the signal and outpace a rival vehicle, the driver lost control and ploughed into the vehicles ahead, causing significant damage.
Following the crash, the driver attempted to flee the scene, abandoning the bus and leaving passengers and bystanders in shock. Several people were injured, though no fatalities were reported immediately. The condition of the injured is being monitored at nearby hospitals.
The accident caused a severe traffic jam in the Salt Lake area, with long queues of vehicles stretching from Webel More to other key intersections. Local traffic police rushed to the spot and began efforts to clear the congestion, which lasted for over an hour.
Police have launched a manhunt to trace the absconding driver. CCTV footage from nearby traffic signals is being reviewed, and transport authorities have been asked to assist in identifying and tracking the individual responsible.