At least 16 dead after truck ran over Indian pilgrims

At least 16 dead after truck ran over Indian pilgrims

2011-06-09 22:44:01 GMT+7 (ICT)

AHMEDABAD, INDIA (BNO NEWS) -- At least 16 Indian pilgrims on Thursday were killed when a speeding truck ran over them while they were sleeping, the Press Trust of India (PTI) reported.

The tragic incident took place on Dolka-Bagodra highway near Ahmedabad, northwestern India. In addition, ten other pilgrims were injured and admitted to the V.S. Hospital in Ahmedabad.

A number of people on their way to pilgrimage were sleeping on the roadside at Beghwa crossroad. The pilgrims were to attend the 'urs' fair at a 'dargha' in Bhadiyad village of Dholka.

Preliminary reports indicate that the driver of the truck lost control of the vehicle and ran over the sleeping pilgrims. Fourteen of fatal victims were killed on the spot including nine women.

Two of the injured pilgrims were reported in very serious condition. Authorities fear that the death toll may rise in the coming hours. The driver of the truck fled the scene and police is looking for him.

The truck was heading to Vakaner in Rajkot after departing from Katni in Madhya Pradesh. The investigation on the case is ongoing.

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