Damoh, April 3 (IANS): In a tragic road accident, two young cousins lost their lives after a speeding truck rammed into their motorcycle while they were returning with a cooking gas cylinder on the Damoh-Pathariya road.
The victims have been identified as Jay Srivastava (son of Sandeep Srivastava), a resident of Teen Gulli, Damoh, and Prabal Srivastava (son of Pradeep Srivastava), a resident of Pathariya.
Victims Declared Dead at Hospital
Both were returning after collecting a gas cylinder when the accident occurred near Khojakhedi between Damoh and Pathariya.
According to police, a speeding truck hit their motorcycle from behind with tremendous force, throwing both youths onto the road. They sustained critical injuries and were rushed to the District Hospital in Damoh by local residents.
However, doctors declared both dead on arrival.
Driver Flees, Probe Underway
The two deceased were cousins and were riding together on the motorcycle with the gas cylinder.
Speaking to IANS, an investigation officer of Damoh (rural area) termed it a tragic incident and said the truck driver fled the scene without helping the victims.
Police have registered a case of rash and negligent driving, and causing death by negligence.
Police Warning on Road Safety
Authorities are examining CCTV footage and collecting eyewitness accounts to determine the exact nature of the collision.
The officer noted that carrying a heavy gas cylinder on a motorcycle is extremely risky, especially at night. He appealed to the public to avoid transporting hazardous items on two-wheelers, citing serious safety concerns.
A case has been registered against the unknown truck driver under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Motor Vehicles Act.