In a ghastly road mishap, at least 17 people were killed and 20 others seriously injured when a lorry carrying logs rammed into 2 stationary tractors ferrying a marriage party in the early hours of Tuesday.
The accident, which occurred at Beerisettigudem, Narsimhulupet mandal in Warangal district, also claimed the life of the groom Banoth Nagesh, while the bride Sunitha is being treated for serious injuries.
The marriage party was on its way to the groom's residence in the early hours of Tuesday, and had halted for a break at the roadside when the speeding lorry rammed into the 2 tractors from behind. The out-of-control lorry crushed the people who had got down from the tractor, killing 12 on the spot.
5 others died while undergoing treatment at the MGM Hospital at Mahabubabad and Warangal.
The scene at the accident site resembled utter chaos, with many of the survivors barely able to speak with shock and grief. One of the survivors who miraculously suffered only minor injuries could be seen squatted on the side of the road, muttering incoherently. All attempts to shake him out of his numb state went in vain.
Among the 12 killed on the spot, 6 were from a music band. 7 of the injured are said to be in critical condition, while 13 others suffered serious injuries.
The victims were shifted to the hospital with the help of "108" ambulances.
Meanwhile, the local MLA Kavitha visited the hospital and inquired about the condition of the survivors.