PM Modi expresses condolences over Kurnool accident, announces ex-gratia for victims
Kurnool, April 16
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed condolences over the road accident in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool district that claimed eight lives, and announced Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for the victims' families.
"The mishap in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh is deeply painful. I extend my condolences to those who have lost their loved ones and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured," the Prime Minister's Office posted on X.
The PMO further mentioned that PM Modi has announced financial assistance from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF), stating that an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh would be given to the next of kin of each deceased, while the injured would receive Rs 50,000.
The accident occurred near Chilakaladona in Mantralayam mandal when a Bolero vehicle collided with a ready-mix lorry.
According to police, five people died on the spot, while three others succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment.
Around 10 to 12 people sustained injuries in the accident. The injured were immediately shifted to Emmiganur Hospital for treatment, officials added.
Police further stated that the deceased had been identified as pilgrims from Karnataka's Chikkamagaluru region.
Further details are awaited.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is heartbreaking. Eight lives lost in an instant. While the financial assistance is necessary and welcome, no amount of money can bring back a father, mother, or child. Prayers for the injured and the grieving families.
The prompt response from the PMO is commendable. It shows the government is standing with the people in their time of grief. However, I hope the local administration also investigates the condition of that road and the speeding vehicles. Jai Hind.
So tragic. They were just pilgrims traveling. Rs 2 lakh is a help, but is it enough for a family that has lost its main earner? The system needs to ensure long-term support for such families, maybe through a pension scheme or guaranteed employment for a family member.
Collision with a ready-mix lorry... these heavy vehicles are often driven recklessly. Strict enforcement of traffic rules, especially for commercial vehicles, is non-negotiable. Condolences to the families from Karnataka.
Respectfully, while the ex-gratia announcement is standard procedure, it often feels like a reactive measure. A more proactive use of the PM Relief Fund could be investing in better road infrastructure and mandatory driver training to prevent these accidents in the first place.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.