A religious journey ended in heartbreak in Maharashtra’s Solapur district after a vehicle carrying devotees crashed into a roadside well, killing eight people and leaving several others injured.
The accident occurred on Sunday evening near Tandulwadi village in Malshiras taluka, triggering a large-scale rescue effort by local authorities and emergency teams.
Women and Children Among the Victims
Officials confirmed that the deceased included four women and four children. Seven other passengers sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby medical facilities, where they are receiving treatment.
The victims were residents of Ranjani village in the Pandharpur region and had been travelling together as part of a pilgrimage when the tragedy unfolded.
Driver Reportedly Lost Control
According to preliminary findings, the pickup van was carrying 15 occupants when it suddenly swerved off the road and plunged into a well located alongside the route.
Investigators suspect the driver lost control of the vehicle moments before the crash. Authorities have launched a detailed inquiry to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the accident.
Massive Rescue Operation Launched
Police personnel, local residents and emergency responders rushed to the scene after receiving alerts about the incident. Rescue teams worked to pull survivors from the well and transport the injured to hospitals.
Officials also carried out operations to recover the vehicle and ensure that all passengers were accounted for.
Village Plunged Into Mourning
The accident has cast a shadow over Ranjani village, where families are grieving the sudden loss of loved ones. The deaths of several children have intensified the sorrow within the community, with residents describing the incident as one of the worst tragedies to hit the area in recent years.
Political leaders and public representatives expressed condolences and urged authorities to provide immediate support to affected families.
PM Modi Announces Financial Assistance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced ex-gratia assistance for the victims’ families.
“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in Solapur Rural, Maharashtra, due to a tragic mishap. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured,” PM Modi said in a post on X.
The Prime Minister also announced financial aid of ₹2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased victim and ₹50,000 for those injured in the accident.
