Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Mar 18: A horrific road accident occurred at Santhekatte on Wednesday, March 18, leaving several persons critically injured after a car collided head-on with an express bus.
Traffic movement in the area had been altered due to ongoing underpass construction works. Vehicles travelling from Kundapur towards Udupi were diverted to the service road, while those heading from Udupi to Kundapur were allowed on the concretized main highway.
It is learnt that a Maruti Baleno car, allegedly moving on the wrong side of the highway from the Kundapur direction, attempted to overtake a Toyota Etios car, which was also reportedly travelling on the wrong side. In the process, the Baleno rammed into an oncoming express bus travelling from Udupi to Kundapur.
The impact of the collision was severe, completely crushing the front portion of the Baleno. The occupants of the car sustained grievous injuries and are said to be in critical condition.
Passengers aboard the bus suffered minor injuries in the incident. Local residents and passersby rushed to the spot and assisted in rescue efforts before the injured were shifted to nearby hospitals.
Police visited the scene and are investigating the case.