Uttar Pradesh Accident Turns Tragic As Car Strikes Motorcycle Carrying Kanwariyas

Two Kanwariyas were killed and another was seriously injured after a speeding car rammed into their motorcycle on the Delhi-Dehradun National Highway in Meerut early Wednesday, police said. The accident occurred in the Jani police station area near MIET College when the three youths were travelling towards Haridwar to collect Ganga water as part of the annual Kanwar Yatra. According to police officials, all three victims were residents of Shahdara in Delhi and were heading to Haridwar when the collision took place. The impact of the crash left the motorcycle riders severely injured.

Gopal, aged 23, died on the spot due to the injuries sustained in the accident, while another victim, Anil, 20, succumbed during treatment at a hospital. The third Kanwariya, identified as Ganesh, sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing medical treatment. Authorities said he remains under observation as doctors continue to provide necessary care. The incident has caused grief among the victims' families and fellow Kanwariyas participating in the religious pilgrimage. Following the accident, police reached the spot and began an investigation into the circumstances that led to the collision.

The driver of the car involved in the accident has been taken into custody, while the vehicle has also been seized. Officials said legal proceedings have been initiated and further investigation is underway. The Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage during the Hindu month of Shravan, during which devotees known as Kanwariyas travel to Haridwar and other holy places to collect sacred Ganga water. A large number of devotees from several states participate in the journey every year, leading authorities to deploy additional security and traffic arrangements along major routes.

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Road accidents involving pilgrims during the Kanwar Yatra have frequently raised concerns over traffic management, road safety and the need for greater awareness among motorists and participants. Police departments in several states often implement special measures, including route diversions and increased patrols, during the pilgrimage period to reduce the risk of accidents. Authorities in Meerut have urged motorists to exercise caution while travelling on highways, especially during periods of increased pedestrian and two-wheeler movement linked to religious gatherings.

The investigation into the Meerut accident will determine the exact circumstances behind the collision and whether any negligence contributed to the deaths. Meanwhile, officials have continued to monitor traffic movement on the Delhi-Dehradun National Highway as the Kanwar Yatra progresses. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety measures during large-scale public events involving thousands of travellers across major routes.

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