The accident occurred around 8:30 pm near a petrol pump in Chikaliya Phata. (Representational Image)
The accident occurred around 8:30 pm near a petrol pump in Chikaliya Phata. Preliminary reports suggest 35 labourers were in the pickup truck, returning from work in an onion field.
“The pickup truck was at high speed and the driver lost control. The vehicle overturned three or four times, veered to the opposite side of the road, and collided with a Scorpio,” Dhar Superintendent of Police Mayank Awasthi said.
Twelve people died on the spot, while 10 critically injured victims were referred to MY Hospital in Indore. Eleven others are being treated at the district hospital in Dhar.
Indore Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr Madhav Hasani said that hospitals have been placed on alert, with instructions to ensure the best possible treatment for those brought in from Dhar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragedy. “Deeply pained to hear about the loss of lives in an accident in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh. I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in this mishap. Prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he posted on X.
Chief minister Mohan Yadav directed the Indore Divisional Commissioner and Inspector General to rush to Dhar and oversee medical arrangements. “Treatment for all the injured will be provided free of cost. I have issued instructions to provide financial assistance of ₹4 lakh each to the families of the deceased, ₹1 lakh each to those critically injured, and ₹50,000 each to the injured,” the CM said.
