A Saraswati Puja celebration turned tragic in Bihar’s Samastipur district on Monday. A tractor carrying devotees overturned during idol immersion. The accident claimed the lives of two young siblings from the same family. Two other children sustained serious injuries in the incident.
The tragic event occurred during the immersion procession. Families had gathered to immerse the idol of Goddess Saraswati. What began as a joyful religious ritual ended in shock and grief for the entire village.
Accident Near Shanti River Bridge
The accident took place near the Shanti river bridge. The location falls under the Chakmehsi police station area. According to local residents, the tractor was returning after idol immersion.
Several people, including children, were riding on the tractor. While giving side to another vehicle, the tractor lost balance. It veered off the road and overturned into a roadside pit.
The sudden turn of events left passengers helpless. Children sitting on the tractor were trapped beneath the vehicle.
Two Children From Same Family Killed
The deceased children were brother and sister. They were identified as Abhiraj and Anushka. Abhiraj was seven years old. Anushka was four years old.
Both children were sons and daughter of Umashankar Thakur. The family resides in Bhuskaul village under Chakmehsi panchayat. Relatives said the children had accompanied elders for the immersion ceremony.
Their deaths left the family devastated. Villagers described the scene as heartbreaking.
Panic Spreads Across the Panchayat
As news of the accident spread, chaos erupted across the panchayat. Villagers rushed toward the accident site. Loud cries and panic filled the area within minutes.
Police were informed immediately after the incident. Local residents began rescue efforts even before authorities arrived. Many tried lifting the tractor but failed due to its weight.
The entire area witnessed scenes of grief and desperation.
Rescue Operation With JCB Machine
Police teams soon reached the spot. A JCB machine was brought to lift the overturned tractor. With joint efforts of police and villagers, the trapped children were pulled out.
Sadly, two children had already died by the time they were rescued. Doctors later confirmed their deaths. The delay proved fatal for the siblings.
Their bodies were covered and taken away amid emotional scenes.
Two Other Children Seriously Injured
The accident also left two other children badly injured. They were immediately taken to Kalyanpur Primary Health Centre. Doctors provided first aid after their arrival.
Due to their critical condition, they were referred to Sadar Hospital Samastipur. Doctors said both children suffered serious injuries. Their condition remains under medical observation.
The injured children belong to the same village. They were identified as sons of Vijay Trivedi and Thandi Ram.
How the Accident Happened
According to villagers, the tractor was overloaded with people. Children and adults were sitting together on the vehicle. While passing through a narrow road, the driver tried giving way to another vehicle.
During the maneuver, the tractor became unstable. It slipped toward the roadside and overturned. The pit near the road worsened the impact.
Locals said the road condition was uneven. There were no safety barriers near the bridge area.
Police Action After the Incident
Chakmehsi station officer Manish Kumar confirmed the details. He said police took custody of the bodies. The bodies were sent for postmortem examination.
He added that all people involved were residents of Chakmehsi panchayat. Police are investigating the exact cause of the accident. Statements of witnesses are being recorded.
Authorities are also checking whether traffic norms were violated.
Senior Officials Reach the Spot
After receiving information, senior officials rushed to the accident site. Sadar Inspector Neeraj reached the location. Circle Officer Shashi Ranjan also inspected the area.
Officials spoke with villagers and family members. They assessed the situation and reviewed rescue efforts. Local administration assured support to the affected families.
Officials described the incident as extremely unfortunate.
Village Plunged Into Mourning
Following the tragedy, Bhuskaul village plunged into mourning. Villagers gathered at the victim’s home. Women and elders were seen consoling the grieving parents.
Residents said the family is poor and hardworking. The sudden loss of two children has shaken the entire community. Many villagers demanded better safety measures during festivals.
The festive mood disappeared instantly after the accident.
Safety Concerns During Idol Immersion
The incident has raised serious safety concerns. Tractors are often used for immersion processions. These vehicles are not designed to carry passengers safely.
Children frequently sit without protection. Overloading increases accident risks significantly. Narrow roads and roadside pits add to the danger.
Locals demanded strict regulation of immersion processions. They urged authorities to restrict use of heavy vehicles for public transport.
Call for Preventive Measures
Community leaders appealed for awareness among villagers. They said religious celebrations must follow safety norms. Children should not be allowed on unsafe vehicles.
Experts say simple precautions can save lives. Limiting passengers and using safer transport options is necessary. Proper traffic management is also essential.
Authorities may issue new guidelines after this incident.
Tragedy Overshadows Religious Celebration
Saraswati Puja is associated with learning and joy. In Samastipur, the festival ended in sorrow for one family. The deaths of Abhiraj and Anushka have left deep scars.
Villagers lit candles and offered prayers for the deceased children. Many described the tragedy as unforgettable.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of safety lapses.
Investigation Continues
Police said the investigation is ongoing. Further action will depend on inquiry findings. Officials assured transparency in the investigation process.
Meanwhile, the focus remains on treatment of injured children. Doctors continue monitoring their condition closely.
The administration has promised assistance to the affected families.
A Painful Lesson for the Future
The Samastipur accident highlights the dangers of unsafe celebrations. Religious enthusiasm must not compromise safety. Authorities and citizens share responsibility.
The loss of two innocent lives has shocked Bihar. The tragedy calls for stricter enforcement and awareness.
