Fatal Highway Crash in Lohardaga Leaves Three Dead, Sparks Protest and Long Traffic Snarl

Lohardaga: A devastating road accident on National Highway-39 in Jharkhand’s Lohardaga district claimed three lives on Friday, including a woman and her son, officials confirmed.

The collision occurred near Dhuluakhunta under the Kuru police station limits, when a goods vehicle carrying liquor crashed head-on into a scooty. The impact was severe, killing two riders on the spot, while the third victim died on the way to the hospital.

The deceased have been identified as Bishun Bhagatain, her son Kishore Bhagat, and her nephew Niranjan Oraon, all residents of Ronhaiya Kolsimri village. They were reportedly on their way to Mandar hospital to visit Bhagatain’s husband, who is currently undergoing treatment.

According to police, the goods vehicle was travelling from Ranchi towards Palamu when the accident took place. The crash caused the vehicle to overturn, spilling liquor bottles across the road.

The incident triggered chaos in the area. A large crowd gathered at the site, with some attempting to loot the scattered liquor. Police personnel, led by Kuru station incharge Ajit Kumar, intervened and restored order.

Angry villagers staged a road blockade, demanding compensation for the victims’ families. The protest led to a major traffic jam on the Kuru-Ranchi road, disrupting movement for nearly two hours.

Officials, including Circle Officer Santosh Oraon, reached the spot and held talks with the protesters. The blockade was eventually lifted after assurances of support. The administration provided immediate relief to the bereaved families, including financial aid for last rites and essential supplies.

Meanwhile, three occupants of the goods vehicle — Vinat Munda, Vikas Minz, and Tinku Ram from Ranchi’s Kanke area — were also injured. After initial treatment, two of them were referred to RIMS, Ranchi, for further care.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident.

With inputs from IANS