Chilakaladona, Ap 16: At least eight people lost their lives, and several others were injured in a tragic road accident near Chilakaladona in Mantralayam mandal, Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh, early Thursday, officials reported.

The accident occurred when a Bolero vehicle carrying pilgrims collided with a ready-mix lorry. The impact trapped multiple passengers and caused severe injuries to several others.

Officials confirmed that five victims died at the scene, while three more succumbed to their injuries later at a nearby hospital. Around 10 to 12 individuals sustained injuries and were rushed to Emmiganur Hospital for treatment.

Preliminary reports indicate that the deceased were pilgrims from Karnataka returning from a visit to the Mantralayam temple.

Police teams quickly arrived at the scene, conducting rescue and relief operations. Efforts were made to evacuate the injured and clear the wreckage. Authorities have registered a case, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident.

This incident comes shortly after a bus accident in Punjab’s Fatehgarh Sahib, which killed six pilgrims and injured around 20 others. The bus, carrying approximately 40 people returning from Anandpur Sahib after the Baisakhi festival, overturned due to a mechanical issue. Injured passengers, including women and children, were admitted to nearby hospitals.

Officials in both cases continue to investigate, and further details are awaited.