Political Leaders Express Grief After Fatal Highway Crash Kills 13
Condolences poured in from political leaders across Maharashtra on Tuesday after a devastating accident on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway claimed the lives of at least 13 people and left around 20 others injured.
The victims were reportedly part of a wedding procession travelling in Palghar district when a speeding container truck crashed into their vehicle, triggering one of the deadliest highway accidents in the region in recent months.
Mumbai Mayor Calls Accident ‘Extremely Heartbreaking’
Ritu Tawde expressed sorrow over the tragedy and described the incident as deeply painful.
In a message shared on social media, the Mumbai Mayor called the accident “extremely heartbreaking” and prayed for strength for the grieving families along with speedy recovery for those injured in the crash.
Several political leaders and public representatives also joined in expressing condolences as details of the accident emerged.
Eknath Shinde and BJP Leaders Offer Condolences
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde offered condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and said the state government stands with the victims during the difficult time.
BJP MLA Ameet Satam described the incident as “extremely tragic” and extended prayers for the injured.
“May God grant strength to their grieving families to bear this boundless sorrow during this difficult time,” Satam said while reacting to the accident.
Maharashtra Government Announces Compensation
Senior Maharashtra minister Ganesh Naik visited the hospital where several injured victims are undergoing treatment and reviewed the medical arrangements.
The Maharashtra government has announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for the families of those killed in the crash. Authorities also assured that medical expenses of the injured would be fully covered by the state.
Officials said emergency healthcare teams were instructed to provide immediate treatment and specialised support wherever required.
Wedding Procession Was Travelling Towards Ceremony
According to preliminary information, the victims were travelling from Bapu village in Dahanu towards Dhanivari for a wedding ceremony when the accident occurred on the busy Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway.
Investigators believe the speeding container truck rammed into the vehicle carrying wedding guests, causing massive destruction and casualties at the scene.
Police and rescue personnel rushed to the spot soon after the incident was reported and launched evacuation and relief operations.
Highway Traffic Severely Disrupted
The collision caused extensive traffic congestion on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway, with long vehicle queues stretching for several kilometres.
Authorities later used cranes and heavy machinery to clear damaged vehicles from the road and gradually restore traffic movement along the route.
Police officials are continuing their investigation into the exact cause of the accident, including possible overspeeding and driver negligence.
Concerns Over Highway Safety Rise Again
The tragedy has once again highlighted concerns surrounding road safety on major highways in Maharashtra, particularly involving heavy vehicles and speeding.
Road safety experts have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of speed regulations, improved monitoring systems and enhanced driver safety measures to reduce fatal accidents on high-traffic routes.
