Kota Expressway Crash: 8 Dead, MP Announces Rs 4 Lakh Aid

Driver Fatigue Suspected

Police said the driver is suspected to have dozed off or become drowsy, causing the vehicle to veer off the road. The exact cause of the accident is yet to be established.

Difficult Rescue Operation

Rescue personnel rushed to the spot after receiving information about the accident. Mud and water accumulated in the drain initially hampered the operation, after which cranes were deployed to pull out the damaged vehicle and rescue those trapped inside.

The injured were taken to the New Medical College Hospital and MBS Hospital in Kota. Hospital officials said they were receiving treatment, with critically injured patients shifted to intensive care.

MP Government Announces Assistance

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of those killed and directed officials to extend all possible support to them.

“The news of the loss of lives in an accident involving a minibus travelling from Bhopal to Khatu Shyam Ji in Kota today is extremely tragic and painful,” the Chief Minister said in a statement.

Offering condolences, he added: “May Baba Mahakal grant peace to the departed souls and give strength to the grieving families to bear this immense loss. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

The state government said officials had been instructed to ensure that the affected families receive financial assistance and all possible support.

Road Safety Concerns on the Expressway

The tragedy once again draws attention to the risks of long overnight drives, particularly in the early morning hours when drivers are most prone to fatigue. The Kota stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway has seen several serious accidents in recent years, including crashes where police suspected drivers had fallen asleep at the wheel. Experts have long recommended rest breaks, relief drivers on long routes and stricter checks on commercial vehicle drivers to prevent such incidents.

What Comes Next

Police are expected to investigate the exact cause of the crash, while the focus for now remains on the treatment of the injured and support for the grieving families in Bhopal and Betul.

With inputs from IANS