Mohan Kuthar

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Mar 5: A tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday afternoon in front of Brahmarshee Mandir Kolya on NH 66 when a Thar jeep, driven at breakneck speed, collided with a car from behind. The impact caused the car's tire to burst, subsequently striking a bike that was traveling ahead. The bike rider lost balance and collided with the road divider, resulting in fatal injuries.

As per local accounts, the youths driving the jeep were allegedly under the influence of ganja.

The deceased has been identified as Santhosh Belchada (45), a resident of Kolya. He was returning home on his bike after completing his work for the day.

The Thar jeep, speeding recklessly, initially collided with a Baleno car carrying a family returning to Kanhangad after a visit to Dharmasthala. The impact caused the car driver to lose control, subsequently hitting the bike in front. The bike rider, Santhosh, lost control and collided with the road divider, resulting in serious injuries. Tragically, Santhosh succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital.

Santhosh is survived by parents, two daughters and wife. He was the lone bread winner of the family.

Residents of Kolya have expressed deep anger and frustration over the accident, emphasizing the urgent need for permanent traffic police patrols and barricades to control speeding on the spot. They lamented that several accidents have occurred at the same location in the past, with little to no action taken by the authorities. Additionally, they accused the three youths in the Thar jeep of being under the influence of Ganja. The locals are demanding a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure justice for the family of the deceased.