Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed grief over the loss of lives in a road accident in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district and announced financial assistance for the affected families.
In a message posted on X, the Prime Minister’s Office said the incident was “deeply painful” and conveyed condolences to the bereaved families while wishing a speedy recovery to those injured.
An ex gratia of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) has been announced for the next of kin of each deceased, while ₹50,000 will be provided to those injured.
According to officials, the accident took place when a Bolero vehicle carrying pilgrims collided with a ready-mix lorry, resulting in a severe impact. Eight people lost their lives in the mishap—five died on the spot, while three succumbed to injuries during treatment at a nearby hospital.
Around 10 to 12 people were injured and were shifted to Emmiganur hospital for treatment. Their condition is being monitored, officials said.
Preliminary information suggests that the victims were pilgrims from Karnataka who had visited the Mantralayam temple and were returning at the time of the accident.
Police teams reached the spot soon after receiving information and initiated rescue and relief operations. The injured were evacuated, and efforts were made to clear the wreckage from the site.
A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the collision. Officials said further details are awaited.
-IANS
