Gwalior Tragedy: Paddy-Laden Truck Ploughs Into Navratri Pilgrims, 13 Killed and 39 Injured

Gwalior: A tragic accident near Sheetla Mata Temple in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, claimed 13 lives after a truck loaded with paddy allegedly broke through police barricades and rammed into a group of pilgrims heading to the temple during Navratri. As many as 39 people were taken to the hospital following the incident, including two police personnel who were on duty at the time.

The accident occurred at around 1:30 AM on the road leading to the temple from the Chhinor side. According to Gwalior SSP Dharamveer Singh, the stretch has a steep downward slope, and the movement of heavy vehicles is prohibited on this route.

Truck Breaks Through Barricades, Crashes Into Temple Gate

According to preliminary information, the truck was stopped near the barricades but allegedly broke through them before losing control and speeding down the slope. The vehicle subsequently crashed into the temple’s outer wall and gate, striking pilgrims on the road. Several people were trapped beneath the truck, leading to the devastating loss of life.

The SSP confirmed that 39 people were taken to the hospital, where 13 were declared dead. Five to six injured people reportedly suffered serious injuries, including fractures, while others sustained comparatively minor injuries. Two police personnel injured in the accident are also receiving medical treatment.

Emergency Teams Rushed to the Spot

Gwalior Collector Ruchika Chauhan said the administration received information about the truck losing control at approximately 1:30 AM. Ambulances and other emergency vehicles were immediately dispatched to the scene to assist the injured and transport them to hospitals.

Doctors are conducting CT scans, X-rays and other necessary examinations to assess the extent of the injuries and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

RTO to Probe Possible Mechanical Failure

The district administration has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Collector Ruchika Chauhan stated that barricades and police checkpoints had been established along the route as part of the security arrangements for Navratri.

Officials are investigating how the truck managed to breach the barricades and enter a road where heavy vehicles are prohibited. A team from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) has been sent to conduct a technical inspection of the vehicle.

The inspection will examine whether a mechanical fault contributed to the accident and why the truck reportedly lost control while turning left. Authorities are also reviewing the security arrangements and traffic-control measures in place near the temple.

The investigation is expected to establish the precise cause of the accident and determine whether any lapses in traffic management or vehicle safety contributed to the tragedy.