Rajkot, Gujarat : A reckless city bus driver caused havoc near Indira Circle in Rajkot today, resulting in a tragic accident that claimed three lives and left two others critically injured. The driver, identified as Shishupal Singh Rana, is currently undergoing treatment at the Civil Hospital after sustaining serious injuries in the crash.
The deceased have been identified as Sangitaben Bel Bahadur Nepali (40), who worked at a beauty parlor near Indira Circle, and Rajubhai Manubhai Gida (35), a clerk in the audit department of Rajkot Municipal Corporation residing at Satyam Park, Street No. 1, 80 Feet Road. Tragically, Rajubhai was riding a bike with his niece, Miraj (5), who also lost her life in the accident.
CCTV footage of the incident shows the bus speeding through traffic when it struck several pedestrians and vehicles waiting at the signal. Eyewitnesses reported that the bus hit at least seven to eight people, leading to immediate fatalities and injuries.
Reacting to the incident, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) city president Dinesh Joshi condemned the negligence, citing reckless driving and disregard for traffic signals as contributing factors. “The bus hit several innocent people due to its reckless speed and failure to adhere to traffic rules,” Joshi stated, emphasizing repeated warnings to authorities about such incidents.
The aftermath of the accident saw a spontaneous gathering of locals, resulting in public outcry and the vandalization of the bus. Police intervention became necessary to restore order, culminating in a lathi charge to disperse the agitated crowd.
Rajkot City Police Commissioner Brajesh Kumar Jha, alongside Joint Police Commissioner Mahendra Bagdia, DCP Traffic Pooja Yadav, and DCP Crime Partharajsinh Gohil arrived at the spot. MLA Dr. Darshita Shah also arrived to assess the situation and offer condolences to the affected families.
The tragic event has once again highlighted concerns over road safety and enforcement of traffic regulations in Rajkot. Authorities are investigating the circumstances leading to the accident, including the role of the bus driver and potential lapses in monitoring and enforcement.
The Rajkot Municipal Corporation and local police have assured a thorough investigation into the incident, promising accountability for any negligence that contributed to the loss of lives. Efforts are underway to provide support to the families of the deceased and the injured during this difficult time.
