Two dead, several injured as Bharat Sevashram Sangha vehicle collides with lorry in Howrah

A Bharat Sevashram Sangha vehicle met with a fatal accident near Bagnan in Howrah district on Monday at 6:30 AM, resulting in the deaths of Swami Shubhankarananda Maharaj (55) and servant Basudev (60). Several others, including another monk and the driver, sustained severe injuries. The vehicle was traveling from Bharat Sevashram Sangha’s ashram in Garia, Kolkata, to Mahishadal in Purba Medinipur when the crash occurred.

According to district police sources, the driver lost control near Bagnan, causing the vehicle to veer into the opposite lane and collide head-on with a speeding sand-laden lorry. The impact was severe, leaving the vehicle extensively damaged. Swami Shubhankarananda Maharaj and Basudev died on the spot, while Swami Amarananda Maharaj suffered critical injuries. Another monk in the vehicle sustained serious head trauma.

Emergency responders transported the injured to Uluberia State General Hospital, where they are receiving treatment. The driver and several other attendants suffered multiple injuries, and their condition is being monitored. Authorities have removed the wrecked vehicle from the accident site, and a forensic examination is underway to determine the exact cause of the crash.

Police have registered a case under sections related to reckless and negligent driving. The lorry involved in the accident has also been seized, and officials are questioning the driver for further details. Preliminary reports indicate that overspeeding may have contributed to the crash, but a detailed investigation is ongoing.