Speeding car runs over Kanwariyas in Gwalior; 4 dead, several injured

Madhya Pradesh: The tragic incident occurred around 1am near Sheetla Mata Mandir Gate on the Agra-Mumbai National Highway in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

A car, reportedly speeding, ran over a group of Kanwariyas — devotees who were carrying Gangajal to offer to God Shiva during the Shravan month.

The devotees travel long distances carrying the structure on their shoulders, and are called Kanwariyas. Three Kanwariyas died on the spot, while a fourth succumbed to injuries during treatment at the JAH Trauma Centre. Six others, including those in the car, were also injured.

What caused the accident?

Preliminary police reports suggest that the accident was caused by a tyre burst, which led the driver to lose control. The car then veered off the road, hitting the devotees before overturning into nearby bushes. Airbags deployed inside the car helped prevent fatalities among its occupants, though they sustained injuries.

The deceased have been identified as residents of Simaria Panchayat, Ghatigaon. They were returning to their village from Bhadavna Kund Uttila and were about 35 km from their destination. All of them were part of a 13-member group on a Kanwar Yatra.

Teams from multiple police stations — including Kampu, Janakganj, Jhansi Road, and Madhoganj — reached the site shortly after the incident. Senior Superintendent of Police Hina Khan confirmed the deaths and said, "The vehicle involved has been recovered, and efforts are on to trace the driver and owner."

A tense atmosphere prevailed at the accident site as news of the deaths spread. Police have stepped up deployment in the area to prevent any law-and-order issues.