GWALIOR: At least 15 Hindu pilgrims were killed and several others injured after a truck ran into devotees near the Sheetla Mata Temple in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, during the Hindu festival of Navratri. The tragedy has raised questions about how a heavy vehicle entered a route reportedly restricted to such traffic and whether a possible Google Maps shortcut played a role in the accident.
According to Indian media reports, the accident occurred at around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday when a truck loaded with paddy lost control while descending a slope and ploughed into pilgrims gathered near the temple.
Initial reports suggested that the driver was unfamiliar with the route and may have followed an alternative route indicated by Google Maps, despite restrictions on heavy vehicles. However, authorities have yet to officially confirm whether Google Maps directions contributed to the crash.
Truck Crashes Through Barriers, Hits Shops and Temple Gate
According to police, the truck broke through barriers erected along the road and struck devotees before crashing into roadside shops. It eventually rammed into the temple’s inner gate.
Authorities are investigating how the heavy vehicle entered the restricted route despite traffic controls and why the safety measures failed to prevent it from reaching the crowded area.
Several people were injured in the incident, including two police personnel who were on duty at the time. The injured were rushed to various hospitals for medical treatment.
Eight Police Personnel Suspended, Senior Officer Removed
Following the tragedy, the local administration began reviewing security arrangements and the responsibilities of officials involved in managing traffic around the temple.
According to media reports, the area’s City Superintendent of Police (CSP) has been removed from the post, while eight police personnel have been suspended.
Authorities are also examining possible lapses in monitoring heavy vehicles and determining why the barriers failed to stop the truck from entering the prohibited route.
Truck Driver and Owner Arrested
Police have also arrested the truck driver and its owner in connection with the accident, according to media reports.
Further investigations are underway to establish the exact circumstances of the crash, determine whether negligence was involved and identify those responsible for any lapses.
The tragedy during Navratri has renewed concerns over traffic management and the enforcement of heavy-vehicle restrictions around religious sites, particularly during major festivals when large numbers of devotees gather.
