In a shocking incident, fifteen people were killed in Gujarat after a truck ran over them. This includes seven men, seven women and a one-year-old child. Several others have been hospitalised with injuries.
The incident took place in Surat's Kosamba area late on Monday night as the casualties slept on the pavement. An earlier report by news agency ANI had identified at least 13 of the victims as hailing from the Banswada district in Rajasthan.
"A truck collided with a tractor loaded with sugarcane after which the driver of the truck lost control of the vehicle and drove it over the pavement where the labourers were sleeping," CM Jadeja, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Kamrej Division, Surat said.
Following the news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh will be given to the next of kin for each of the deceased from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund. According to the details shared by the PMO, Rs 50,000 each would be given to those injured.
"The loss of lives due to a truck accident in Surat is tragic. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. Praying that the injured recover at the earliest," the PMO handle wrote.
Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said that he was distressed by the news, reiterating that financial support was being given to the victims and their families.
"I am distressed by the tragic death of innocent workers sleeping on the pavement in Surat. Prayers to God for the salvation of departed souls and support to the mourning families," he tweeted in Hindi.
Further details awaited.
