PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, January 5: A tragic road accident near the Barigora railway crossing under the Parsudih police station area claimed the life of a 16-year-old girl on Monday, while her younger cousin sustained serious injuries.
The incident sparked widespread anger among local residents, leading to road and railway track blockades and vandalism of the bus involved in the accident.
Victims Identified
The deceased has been identified as Anjali Kumari (16), a resident of Barigora Subhash Tola. She was out to buy essential items when the incident occurred.
Her cousin, Nidhi Kumari, aged around 10 to 12 years, was accompanying her. Nidhi suffered serious injuries and was rushed to Tata Motors Hospital with the help of local residents. Doctors said her condition is being closely monitored.
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How the Accident Occurred
According to family members and eyewitnesses, a bus was parked on the roadside near the railway gate. The driver allegedly applied the handbrake and went away to have tea.
As the railway gate was closing, the bus’s handbrake reportedly failed, causing the vehicle to roll backwards and ram into a scooter on which the two girls were riding.
Anjali was crushed under the bus and died on the spot.
Protests, Road and Rail Blockades
Following the accident, angry residents gathered at the site, raised slogans, and blocked the road and nearby railway tracks, disrupting traffic movement for several hours.
The agitated crowd also damaged the bus, resulting in significant losses.
Police Action and Investigation
Police personnel from Parsudih police station reached the spot soon after receiving information and managed to bring the situation under control.
Family members of the deceased said they want the bus owner to come forward and hold talks before deciding on further legal action.
Police officials stated that an investigation is underway to determine the role of the bus driver and to examine whether mechanical failure, including a handbrake malfunction, led to the accident.
Authorities assured that strict action will be taken against those found responsible, as well as against individuals involved in vandalism.
