A devastating accident on Friday has claimed the life of Priyanka, a 26-year-old woman, who was riding pillion on a motorcycle when it skidded on a large pothole. The incident occurred on the poorly maintained Huskur-APMC Road near Madanayakanahalli, on the outskirts of the city. The road, reportedly in a dilapidated condition due to ongoing civic work, proved fatal for Priyanka and her brother, who was riding the bike.
According to preliminary reports from the Madanayakanahalli police, the couple was en route to Madavara when they encountered the hazardous pothole. Priyanka’s brother attempted to swerve and avoid the crater, but tragically lost control of the vehicle, causing both riders to fall. In a horrific turn of events, Priyanka was struck by a passing canter lorry, sustaining fatal head injuries and succumbing to her injuries at the scene.
Inspector N Muralidhar of the Madanayakanahalli station confirmed that the accident took place around 1 p.m. on Friday, attributing it to commuters trying to navigate the treacherous pothole. A case has been registered, and a thorough investigation is underway. Police quickly attended the scene to manage the traffic disruption caused by the accident and have since sent Priyanka’s body for a post-mortem examination at Nelamangala Government Hospital.
The incident has ignited public outcry, with local residents pointing fingers at civic authorities for alleged negligence. Many have voiced their frustration over the persistent lack of road repairs despite numerous complaints. “This road has been dug up for months and not repaired properly. Every day, commuters risk their lives,” stated BN Srinivas, a local resident, echoing the sentiment of the community.
Citizens’ groups are now urging the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the Public Works Department (PWD) to take immediate and decisive action to repair these dangerous road stretches before any more lives are lost. The driver of the canter lorry involved in the accident has been taken into custody for questioning as the investigation continues.