Bulandshahr (Uttar Pradesh), August 25 – At least nine people, including children, lost their lives and more than 40 others were injured when a container truck crashed into a tractor-trolley carrying pilgrims near the Arnia bypass in Bulandshahr district late Sunday night.

Police officials said the accident took place around 2:10 am when the tractor-trolley, carrying around 60 to 61 devotees, was on its way from Kasganj district to the Jaharpeer shrine in Rajasthan. The heavy truck, moving at high speed, hit the trolley from behind, causing it to overturn. Many passengers were thrown out due to the force of the impact.

Emergency teams, along with local residents, rushed to the spot to assist the injured. The victims were immediately taken to nearby hospitals, while those with critical injuries were referred to larger facilities for advanced treatment. District authorities confirmed that relief operations are ongoing.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief over the tragedy and announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh for the families of each deceased and ₹50,000 for those injured. He directed officials to ensure prompt medical care and support for the survivors.

Police have impounded the truck involved in the accident and registered a case to determine the cause and possible negligence.

The tragedy has cast a shadow over the region, with officials urging stricter road safety measures to prevent such incidents. Pilgrims frequently use tractor-trolleys in rural areas, which remain vulnerable in collisions with heavy vehicles.