Sangrur, 11 November (H.S.): A tragic road accident occurred in Punjab’s Sangrur district early Wednesday morning when a Punjab Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) bus travelling from Sangrur to Chandigarh lost control, crashed into the wall of an overbridge, and overturned in nearby fields. Three passengers, including two women, lost their lives, while 26 others sustained injuries. Of the injured, 15 were seriously hurt and referred to Rajindra Hospital in Patiala for further treatment.

According to reports, the bus departed from Sangrur for Chandigarh at approximately 4:40 a.m. As it approached Mastuana Sahib, the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle. The bus initially collided with the wall of a bridge before veering off the road and overturning in the fields. The front portion of the bus was severely damaged in the crash.

Following the accident, panic spread among passengers as cries for help were heard. Local residents immediately rushed to the scene, rescued injured passengers from the overturned bus, and informed the police. The injured were subsequently transported to nearby hospitals.

Preliminary police investigations suggest that the bus was running approximately ten minutes behind schedule. According to Sangrur Deputy Superintendent of Police Dalbir Singh Sandhu, the driver was allegedly speeding in an attempt to make up for the delay, which may have contributed to the accident.

The deceased have been identified as two women from Dhuri and 55-year-old Manjit Singh, a resident of Thales village.

Police have registered a case against the bus driver based on a statement provided by injured student Vinay Kumar. Further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident is underway.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. He also directed the district administration to ensure free medical treatment for all injured passengers.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH