Three people, including a mother, her son, and nephew, were killed in a severe road accident on National Highway-39 in Lohardaga district, Jharkhand, on Friday. Police said a liquor-laden goods vehicle collided head-on with a scooty near Dhuluakhunta under Kuru police station. The impact killed Kishore Bhagat and Niranjan Oraon instantly, while Bishun Bhagatain succumbed to injuries en route to Lohardaga Sadar Hospital. The victims, residents of Ronhaiya Kolsimri village, were traveling to Mandar hospital to visit Bishun’s husband, who is undergoing treatment.
The collision overturned the goods vehicle, scattering liquor bottles across the highway and drawing large crowds. Some locals attempted to loot the liquor before police intervened. Angered villagers blocked the Kuru-Ranchi main road for nearly two hours, causing massive traffic jams. They demanded compensation for the victims’ families, prompting Circle Officer Santosh Oraon and police station incharge Ajit Kumar to hold discussions with protesters. After negotiations, the blockade was lifted, and the administration provided immediate assistance, including cash for last rites and two quintals of rice.
Three occupants of the goods vehicle – Vinat Munda, Vikas Minz, and Tinku Ram from Ranchi district – were also injured. After primary treatment, Munda and Minz, who sustained serious injuries, were referred to RIMS Ranchi for advanced medical care. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns on busy highways, where heavy vehicles and inadequate enforcement often contribute to fatal accidents.