Daijiworld Media Network - Raipur/Surajpur

Raipur/Surajpur, May 6: A tragic road accident in Chhattisgarh claimed the lives of three people after a pickup van overturned in the Chandni Biharpur area of Surajpur district early Wednesday morning.

According to police, the incident occurred near Umzhar valley in the Moharsop outpost region when the vehicle, carrying passengers returning from a family ceremony, lost control and flipped over. Two individuals died at the scene, while another succumbed to injuries during treatment.

The victims were part of a group of around 30 members of the Pando family from Biharpur village who had travelled to Rasauki village to attend a “Chouthi” ceremony. The accident took place as they were on their way back home.

Authorities identified the deceased as Sita Kunwar Pando, Ramsharan Pando, and Basanti Pando. While the first two died instantly, Basanti Pando passed away later in hospital.

Several others were injured in the mishap, with nearly a dozen sustaining injuries and at least three reported to be in critical condition. The injured were rushed to hospitals in Ambikapur and Surajpur, where some remain under intensive care.

Police teams reached the site soon after being alerted and, along with local residents, carried out rescue operations amid chaotic scenes.

Preliminary findings suggest that poor road conditions contributed to the accident. The stretch near the valley was reportedly muddy and slippery due to recent rainfall, leading to the driver losing control of the vehicle.

A detailed investigation is underway as the local community mourns the loss of lives following what had been a family gathering.