A catastrophic multi-vehicle pile-up near Sulibele in Hoskote claimed seven lives early Friday morning. The accident, which occurred approximately 35 km from Bengaluru, involved two SUVs, a commercial canter, and a scooter. Investigative reports confirm that the rider of the two-wheeler and all six occupants of a Mahindra XUV died instantly at the scene.
Victims Identified
The police have identified the scooterist as 26-year-old Gagan, an employee at a private firm. The occupants of the XUV were identified as Ashwin Nair (17), Arhaan Sharif (18), Ayaan Ali (16), Bharath (17), and Ethan George (17). All were students from various schools and pre-university colleges. Authorities are still working to identify the seventh victim from the car and determine how the group was connected, as their families were reportedly unaware of their friendship.
Details of the Collision
The tragedy unfolded around 4:40 a.m. on the Hoskote–Dobbspet highway near M. Satyavara village. A patrol team from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) discovered the wreckage and alerted local police. According to investigators, the XUV was traveling toward Devanahalli when it rear-ended Gagan’s scooter. The car then slammed into the back of a moving canter truck.
The initial impact launched Gagan from his scooter; he struck a crash barrier with such force that he died on impact. The collision with the canter was so violent that it ripped off two of the truck’s rear wheels, causing it to flip over. The XUV then skidded for nearly 100 meters before hitting a barrier. A second SUV trailing behind also struck the debris, though its passengers escaped without injury.
Ongoing Investigation
The canter driver, Balasubramani, survived with minor injuries. He reported losing consciousness upon impact and was later rescued by passersby. Bengaluru Rural Superintendent of Police, Chandrakanth M.V., noted that the XUV belonged to the father of one of the victims.
“We will examine technical details to ascertain whether the car was driven by a minor,” the SP stated, adding that parents could face legal action if negligence is proven. It was also revealed that none of the youths had informed their parents before leaving home.
Community Concerns
The loss of Gagan is particularly poignant, as he was the sole provider for his visually impaired mother. He was returning from a night shift at the time of the crash. Local residents claim this specific stretch of highway is a “death trap” due to technical flaws, reporting at least one fatality per month. In response, a joint safety inspection involving the NHAI and transport officials is scheduled for February 14.
Suggestion
Authorities must enforce strict night patrols and speed monitoring to prevent minors from driving vehicles without a valid license.Improving highway lighting and installing better crash barriers can significantly reduce the severity of impacts during these early morning hours.Regular road safety audits are essential to identify technical flaws and ensure that heavy vehicles maintain proper rear reflective markings.
Also Read :- Tragic Multi-Vehicle Collision Near Mandapam Claims Three Lives
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