Prayagraj: A pilgrimage to the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, turned tragic for 70 devotees from Odisha after their bus collided with a stationary sand-laden truck in Bihar.
The accident, which occurred around 12:50 AM near Mohania in Kaimur district, left 35 people injured, including three in critical condition.
Reports suggest that the driver, identified as Sriram, may have fallen asleep at the wheel, causing the bus to ram into the truck from the rear. Emergency services rushed to the site, and the injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Among the critically injured are Raj Kishore Sahu (Naguana), Subas Behera (Kukudia), and Bapi Samal (Phulbani), who are currently undergoing treatment at Varanasi Government Hospital. The others are being treated at a sub-divisional hospital in Bihar.
Concerned over the incident, the Odisha government has announced several measures to ensure safe travel for pilgrims:
📌 Helpline numbers for families of travelers
📌 Liaison officers in Uttar Pradesh for assistance
📌 Special trains under consideration to reduce bus travel risks
With Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 attracting millions of devotees, authorities are urging travelers to prioritize safety, ensuring a secure and smooth pilgrimage experience.
