In a devastating incident on the evening of September 11, 2025, a Uttar Pradesh Roadways bus traveling from Hardoi to Lucknow collided with a water tanker in the Kakori area. The impact caused the bus to lose control and plunge into a 20-foot-deep ditch, resulting in the tragic loss of five lives and leaving over a dozen others injured.
Incident Details
The accident occurred near a bridge where road construction work was underway. Local authorities reported that the water tanker was engaged in sprinkling water for roadside plantation when the bus, traveling at high speed, collided with it. Eyewitnesses mentioned that the absence of street lighting in the area contributed to the driver's inability to spot the tanker in time.
Among the deceased was a local vegetable vendor who was reportedly pulled into the gorge during the crash. The bus was carrying approximately 40 passengers, and the injured were promptly transported to nearby hospitals, including the Kakori Community Health Center and King George's Medical University Trauma Centre.
Rescue Operations and Official Response
Emergency response teams, including local police, firefighters, and residents, swiftly initiated rescue operations at the accident site. Cranes were employed to extricate the overturned bus from the ditch. Senior administrative and police officials, including the District Magistrate and Police Commissioner, arrived at the scene to oversee the rescue efforts.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and directed officials to expedite the rescue and relief operations. He also instructed that the injured receive immediate medical attention.
Investigation and Future Measures
Preliminary investigations suggest that the combination of high speed and poor visibility due to inadequate street lighting may have contributed to the accident. Authorities have initiated a probe to ascertain the exact causes and to determine accountability. The incident has raised concerns about road safety measures, particularly in areas undergoing construction. Local residents have urged the government to address these issues to prevent future tragedies.