Daijiworld Media Network - Shahdol

Shahdol (Madhya Pradesh), Jan 24: A heartbreaking road accident in the forested Khajurwar region near Amarkantak has claimed the lives of three minor sisters in Anuppur district, officials confirmed on Saturday.

The incident took place around 1:30 pm on Friday along a rough dirt track nearly 35 km from the pilgrimage town of Amarkantak. The victims—Kavya Mahobe (6), Anamika Mahobe (3), and infant Anshika Mahobe (3 months)—were daughters of Dinesh Kumar Mahobe, a resident of Khajurwar village.

At the time of the accident, the children were riding with their mother, Rukmani Bai Mahobe, seated on the engine area of a tractor transporting cement bags and iron rods. The vehicle was being driven by Dinesh Mahobe’s elder brother.

Police officials stated that the driver lost control while trying to avoid an animal that suddenly crossed the road. The tractor overturned, causing serious injuries to those onboard. Despite being rushed to Damehri hospital, the three children succumbed to their injuries and were declared dead on arrival.

Rukmani Bai sustained injuries in the accident and is currently undergoing treatment at the hospital. Local villagers rushed to the scene and helped in rescuing the victims and lifting the overturned tractor.

Amarkantak police personnel, including investigation officer Lal Bahadur Tiwari and Assistant Sub-Inspector P.R. Dhananjay, reached the spot soon after receiving the alert. A case has been registered, and a detailed investigation is underway.

Following post-mortem examinations, the bodies of the children were handed over to their family for last rites.

Amarkantak, located in the Vindhya range and revered as the birthplace of the Narmada River, witnesses frequent movement of people and goods. However, the forest roads surrounding the area—often used by tractors to transport construction materials—remain hazardous due to uneven terrain, wildlife movement, and frequent overloading, posing ongoing risks to commuters.