Madhya Pradesh’s Jabalpur witnessed a horrifying road accident on Sunday when a car plowed into laborers sitting by the road in the Barela region, near Gaur River. Five NHAI road workers lost their lives, with the death toll rising from an initial two on-site fatalities.
The victims were part of a road construction crew taking respite from their duties. Three more succumbed during treatment, and eight survivors battle for recovery in hospitals. Eyewitnesses described the car speeding uncontrollably before the collision.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, deeply saddened, immediately approved aid packages. Families of the deceased will receive Rs 4 lakh from the state, plus Rs 6 lakh from the agency, totaling substantial support. Seriously injured get Rs 1 lakh each from both sources, and minor injury cases Rs 50,000.
Public fury erupted Monday with a road blockade protesting inadequate safety and demanding higher compensation of Rs 25 lakh. Authorities detained the car owner and impounded the vehicle as investigations proceed.
In his statement, CM Yadav stood in solidarity with the grieving families, offering prayers for peace and quick healing. The opposition, led by Congress chief Jitu Patwari, mourned the loss but slammed the administration for negligence.
Such incidents highlight glaring gaps in worker safety along highways. Experts call for better signage, barriers, and awareness campaigns to prevent future tragedies. As Jabalpur mourns, the focus shifts to justice and systemic reforms.