Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Sep 29: In a heartbreaking start to the Durga Puja festivities, a speeding bus overturned near Bolpur in West Bengal’s Birbhum district on Monday morning, killing a child and injuring at least 30 others. Twelve of the injured are reported to be in critical condition.

The accident occurred near the Bolpur Sub-divisional Hospital, as the bus was en route from Nanoor to Bolpur. According to initial reports, the bus was traveling at high speed when a Toto (local electric rickshaw) suddenly appeared in its path. In an attempt to avoid a collision, the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to overturn.

Eyewitnesses said the crash happened just outside the hospital premises, prompting locals to rush to the scene and assist the injured. Emergency response teams and police arrived shortly after, working with residents to free trapped passengers and transport them to the nearby hospital.

Doctors later confirmed the death of one child. The identities of the victims, including the deceased, have not yet been officially released. Police are currently working to contact the families of the injured.

A senior officer from Birbhum district police described the scene as “terrible,” adding:

"A devastating accident occurred this morning, right at the start of Durga Puja. A child has died, and nearly 30 others are hurt. Twelve are in serious condition. The accident happened when the driver tried to swerve away from a Toto."

The crash also triggered a major traffic jam on the busy Bolpur-Nanoor road. The congestion was later cleared and normal vehicular movement resumed.

Local Outrage Over Road Conditions

Residents of the area have voiced strong concerns over the deplorable condition of the Bolpur-Nanoor road, claiming that repeated accidents are caused by poor maintenance and the absence of proper safety measures. “This stretch is a death trap,” said one local. “We’ve been demanding repairs for years, but nothing happens.”

Police have initiated an investigation into the incident, including whether negligent driving or poor road conditions were primarily responsible for the crash.

As families await updates on their loved ones, the community mourns the loss of a young life and calls for urgent action to prevent further tragedies on this neglected road.