11 killed in collision involving multiple vehicles in Mirzapur

Varanasi: At least 11 people were killed in a collision involving multiple vehicles that led to fire in an SUV in the Dramandganj area of Mirzapur late Wed evening. The tragedy took place when two trucks, a car and an SUV collided on the steep slope of Dramandganj hills around 9.00 pm.Mirzapur SP Aparna Rajat Kaushik confirmed 11 deaths, including seven occupants of the SUV who were charred after their vehicle caught fire following the collision. The other two deceased were the drivers of the car and one of the trucks. The remaining two are yet to be identified.According to Mirzapur officials, a truck coming from MP’s Rewa dist was descending the Drumandganj hill when its brakes suddenly failed, causing the driver to lose control. The out-of-control truck first collided with a car which was climbing at the same time. The car was then rammed from behind by another truck. Before anyone could react, a speeding SUV that was also climbing ran into the truck.The SUV instantly caught fire after the collision and all seven occupants could not get a chance to jump out. Drivers of the car and truck coming from MP also died in the accident.ADG, Varanasi Zone, Piyush Mordia, said that two circle officers, five police station in-charges and two fire tenders were engaged for rescue operations, while the Mirzapur SP also reached the spot.The incident caused chaos on the MP-Mirzapur highway. Eyewitnesses said that after the accident, the people inside the SUV were trapped and trying to get out. Local residents also rushed to help them, but just then the vehicle caught fire with a loud explosion. Within moments, the fire became menacing and engulfed all the people inside the vehicle.Upon receiving information, Drumandganj police station personnel reached the spot and relief and rescue operations were launched. The fire department was also informed, following which attempts were made to bring the fire under control. However, by then it was too late.