7 Pilgrims Killed in Gujarat Highway Horror as Speeding Truck Mows Down Group

"The mishap in Surendranagar district, Gujarat, is deeply distressing. Heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. Prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured," PM Modi said in a post on X.

The accident occurred at around 1.20 a.m. on the Lakhtar-Viramgam highway between Chharad and Bhaskarpara villages near Lakhtar, when a group of foot pilgrims was struck from behind by a speeding dumper truck, according to officials.

The victims, belonging to the Bharwad community, were travelling from Gadhka village in Rajkot district towards Viramgam for temple darshan and a flag-hoisting ritual.

Police said the group was part of a larger group of around 700 devotees undertaking the pilgrimage.

The victims were members of the Mundhva family. Seven people, including five women and two men, died at the scene.

The deceased were identified as Masabhai Mundhva, Jaluben Mundhva, Raniben Lambariya and Vajiben Mundhva, among others.

At least four people sustained serious injuries and were admitted to the hospital, while some accounts indicated that up to 10 to 12 pilgrims may have been affected in the incident.

Eyewitnesses said the truck was travelling at high speed and failed to slow down.

One witness said a vehicle had been stationary on the roadside, possibly due to a tyre change, and the pilgrims were walking along the side when "another truck came without braking and ran over the people".

Police and emergency services, including the 108 ambulance team, reached the scene shortly after the incident and shifted the victims to a local government hospital for post-mortem examinations and treatment.

A case has been registered against the truck driver, who fled the scene, and an investigation is underway to establish the circumstances leading to the collision.

- IANS