Ambulance Driver Dies, Another Injured After Bus Collision in Amethi

A tragic road accident on the Prayagraj-Ayodhya Highway claimed the life of a 30-year-old ambulance driver and left another person seriously injured after an Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) bus collided with the medical vehicle near Piparpur Railway Station, authorities reported Wednesday. The incident, which occurred late Tuesday night, highlights ongoing concerns over road safety in one of India's busiest highway corridors, where high-speed intercity travel often intersects with emergency services.

Police investigations indicate the UPSRTC bus, operating from the Bahraich depot and en route to Ayodhya from Prayagraj, rammed into the ambulance as it attempted to merge onto the main road. The driver, identified as Izhar, a Mumbai resident employed with the ambulance service, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Eyewitnesses described the collision as sudden, with the bus reportedly failing to reduce speed amid heavy night traffic. The sole injured passenger, whose identity remains undisclosed pending family notification, was promptly transported to Sultanpur District Hospital for emergency treatment and is listed in serious condition.

Local authorities, led by Piparpur Station House Officer (SHO) Ramraj Kushwaha, have initiated a formal inquiry to ascertain the exact cause, including potential factors like driver fatigue or poor visibility. Izhar's body was sent for post-mortem examination at a nearby facility, with results expected to guide further legal proceedings against the bus driver, who has been detained for questioning. The UPSRTC has expressed condolences and pledged cooperation, stating an internal probe will review compliance with night-driving protocols.

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This accident underscores persistent road safety challenges in Uttar Pradesh, where the state recorded over 22,000 fatalities in 2024 alone, according to National Crime Records Bureau data, with highways like Prayagraj-Ayodhya accounting for a significant share due to pilgrimage traffic and inadequate signage. Advocacy groups have long called for stricter enforcement of speed limits and dedicated emergency lanes.

As investigations continue, community leaders in Amethi are urging enhanced patrolling and awareness campaigns to prevent future tragedies on this vital route linking key religious sites.

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