NewsFlash Daily™
16 April 
Pilgrimage turns tragic as speeding tanker rams Bolero near Kalludevakunta, 13 injured, Karnataka families plunged into grief
Raichur: Eight devotees from Karnataka lost their lives after a speeding tanker crashed into the Bolero vehicle carrying pilgrims headed for Mantralaya. The mishap took place early Thursday morning near Kalludevakunta village in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district, sending shockwaves across Karnataka and among devotees of the shrine.
Police officials confirmed that the victims were residents of Chikkamagaluru district and were travelling as part of a pilgrimage group when the collision occurred. Authorities rushed to the spot soon after receiving information and launched rescue operations.
How the Deadly Accident Happened
According to a preliminary investigation, a total of 21 devotees were travelling in the Bolero vehicle from Chikkamagaluru towards Mantralaya. When the vehicle reached near Kalludevakunta, a tanker loaded with cement and gravel reportedly came from the opposite direction and rammed into the pilgrims’ vehicle with massive force.
The impact was so severe that six devotees died on the spot, while two others succumbed during treatment, taking the death toll to eight.
Eyewitnesses said the Bolero was badly mangled in the collision, while local residents and police personnel worked together to pull out trapped passengers.
“The force of the collision was intense. Rescue teams had to act immediately to save those trapped inside,” sources said.
13 Injured Shifted to Hospitals
The remaining 13 injured passengers were immediately shifted to government hospitals in Emmiganur and Kurnool for emergency treatment. Several of the injured are reported to be under medical supervision.
Traffic movement on the Mantralaya route was temporarily disrupted after the crash, but police later restored movement after clearing the damaged vehicles.
Victims Identified
Police identified the deceased as:
- Kumar (50)
- Deepika
- Veena (42)
- Sunil (40)
- Puttamma (55)
- Lolakshi
- Yashodha (60)
- Belli (5), a young child
The death of a five-year-old girl has further deepened grief among the affected families.
Tanker Driver Detained
Officials stated that the tanker driver has been taken into custody by Mantralaya Police Station for questioning. A case has been registered, and further investigation is underway to determine whether rash driving or negligence caused the crash.
Shock and Mourning in Karnataka
The tragic deaths of devotees travelling for a sacred visit have triggered mourning in Chikkamagaluru and surrounding areas. Family members of the deceased were seen grieving as news of the accident reached their hometown.
