Daijiworld Media Network - Maihar
Maihar (Madhya Pradesh), Dec 25: A late-night road accident claimed the lives of three young labourers near the Gujra toll plaza in Maihar district, sending shockwaves through nearby villages.
The incident occurred on the Bela–Govindgarh road when a motorcycle carrying the three men rammed into a tractor-trolley that was reportedly standing unattended along the roadside near the Indian Gas Agency, within the jurisdiction of the Mukundpur police outpost. The collision was so severe that the two-wheeler was wrecked beyond recognition, and all three riders died on the spot.
Police identified the victims as Ankit Sodhia, Deepak Kol, and Nagendra Kol, residents of Jamuna village. The trio was returning home from Rewa after finishing their daily work as labourers when the mishap took place near the Gujra petrol pump.
Initial findings suggest that excessive speed, combined with negligence, may have led to the accident. Investigators also noted that the tractor-trolley lacked reflective markers, making it difficult to spot in low visibility conditions. Authorities are additionally examining whether alcohol consumption played any role in the incident.
Soon after receiving the alert, a team from Tala police station reached the location, secured the area, and completed legal procedures. The bodies were later sent to Amarpatan hospital for post-mortem examinations.
Police are now focusing on why the tractor-trolley was parked on a highway without proper safety warnings, an issue that has increasingly raised concerns. Residents in the area have voiced anger over the frequent practice of leaving heavy vehicles on roadsides at night, calling it a major risk to commuters.
Villagers have appealed to the district administration to strictly enforce safety norms, including compulsory reflectors, warning lights, or barricades for stationary vehicles. They also highlighted that winter fog significantly reduces visibility, making nighttime travel even more dangerous, and urged immediate preventive action to avoid further loss of life.