Early morning accident claims lives of 3, including pregnant woman, in North Bengal

On Thursday, three individuals, including a pregnant woman, lost their lives on the national highway near Satkhaiya in Meteli Block. The incident occurred around 5:30 AM when a Maruti Suzuki van carrying five passengers collided head-on with a newspaper-laden truck, resulting in catastrophic damage to the smaller vehicle. Eyewitnesses reported that the sound of the crash echoed through the area, drawing local residents to the scene to assist those involved.

The victims, all residents of Banarhat, were en route to Siliguri Medical College for urgent medical treatment. Reports indicate that the group consisted of a pregnant woman, her family members, and a family friend. Upon arrival at the scene, police found that the pregnant woman and another male passenger had died instantly. Rescue teams arrived shortly thereafter, and emergency medical personnel worked to extricate the remaining passengers from the wreckage.

The two survivors were critically injured and transported to the nearest hospital. Unfortunately, one more victim succumbed to injuries shortly after reaching the medical facility, bringing the total death toll to three. The surviving passengers are currently receiving treatment at Siliguri Medical College, where their conditions are being closely monitored. Authorities have stated that the pregnant woman's death has particularly shocked the community.

The Meteli police have launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Officers are gathering evidence from the crash site, including photographs of the wreckage and skid marks on the road. Preliminary findings suggest that the truck may have veered into the opposite lane, but investigations are ongoing to confirm the exact cause of the accident. In light of this tragedy, local officials are discussing measures to enhance road safety, including potential traffic signal installations and increased enforcement of speed limits on the busy national highway. Community leaders are also calling for public awareness campaigns to educate drivers about safe driving practices, especially during early morning hours when visibility can be compromised.