Team Goemkarponn
SANCOALE: A horrific road accident at Shindolim in Sancoale on Friday afternoon claimed the life of a 37-year-old motorcyclist after a Mercedes allegedly rammed his motorcycle and dragged it for nearly two kilometres before both vehicles caught fire.
The accident occurred at around 2 pm and resulted in the death of Ashok Chavan, 37, a resident of Shindolim, Sancoale, and a native of Jharkhand. Chavan was riding motorcycle bearing registration number GA06 Q 7275 when it was allegedly hit by a Mercedes bearing registration number GA07 L 9095.
According to preliminary information, the impact was severe, with the motorcycle reportedly becoming trapped under the Mercedes. The car allegedly continued moving with the bike being dragged along the road for nearly two kilometres before both vehicles came to a halt and caught fire.
The fire quickly engulfed both vehicles. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot, and firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control. The Mercedes driver was also rescued from the vehicle during the emergency operation.
Verna Police reached the scene and initiated proceedings, registering an accident case and beginning an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
Sources claimed that the Mercedes driver, identified as Vidhyadhar Prabhu, 32, a resident of Fatorda, was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. The allegation will be subject to police investigation, medical examination and other procedures.
The incident caused panic among residents of Shindolim, particularly as the crash occurred during the afternoon when schoolchildren and pedestrians are commonly present in the area. Residents said the consequences could have been even more serious had the speeding vehicle struck children or other pedestrians.
Congress leader Olencio Simoes condemned the incident and demanded stringent action against the driver. He also urged police to consider registering a murder case if the investigation establishes deliberate or extremely reckless driving despite alleged intoxication.
The fatal crash has once again highlighted concerns over drunk and reckless driving and the need for stronger enforcement to ensure road safety, particularly in areas frequented by schoolchildren and pedestrians.
Police are continuing their investigation, with the speed of the Mercedes, the exact circumstances of the collision and the driver’s condition at the time of the accident among the aspects being examined.
