Chennai, 18 October (H.S.) : A family's morning commute turned hazardous when a large roadside tree suddenly collapsed onto their car on Sterling Avenue in Nungambakkam, Chennai, on Saturday. The incident, which occurred around 8:30 am, involved a rain-weakened Thoongu Moonji (Rain Tree) falling directly onto the vehicle (TN 14 U 0378), which was traveling towards T. Nagar. The impact caused significant damage to the front of the car.

The car's front left passenger, P. Bhagyalakshmi (54), sustained a minor head injury. She was immediately rushed by a 108 ambulance to the nearby KMC Government Hospital in Kilpauk for treatment. Hospital sources confirmed that Ms. Bhagyalakshmi is currently stable and receiving care. Two other occupants, her daughter, S. Susanthika (26), and her son-in-law, Santhosh Kumar, escaped without visible external injuries. However, Susanthika reported experiencing pain due to the shock of the incident.

Police personnel promptly arrived at the scene to conduct an investigation. Authorities confirmed that heavy rains are the likely cause, as the ground was softened, leading to the tree's collapse. Corporation workers swiftly mobilized to clear the road.

Officials reported that the fallen tree was completely removed by 9:55 am, ensuring minimal disruption to the traffic flow on Sterling Avenue. An investigation into the exact circumstances of the incident remains ongoing.

The swift response from the police and Corporation workers ensured the quick clearing of the site and transport of the injured to the hospital.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary