A tragic series of incidents was reported from Bihar on the occasion of Maghi Purnima. At least nine people lost their lives while traveling for the holy Ganga Snan. Seven devotees died in separate road accidents in Buxar and Mokama, while two others drowned in the Ganga River in Patna.
The incidents occurred within a short span of time and have caused widespread grief. Families traveling with faith and devotion faced devastating losses. Authorities are investigating each incident and conducting rescue operations where required.
Four Killed in Road Accident in Buxar
In Buxar district, a deadly road accident occurred near Chanda village. The incident took place under the Naya Bhojpur police station area on a national highway. A family of four was traveling by car for Maghi Purnima Ganga Snan in Buxar.
Their vehicle collided with a dumper on the highway. The impact was severe. Three people died on the spot due to critical injuries. The fourth injured person was rushed to the district Sadar Hospital for treatment.
Despite medical efforts, the injured person died during treatment. The accident caused panic in the area and disrupted traffic movement for some time. Police reached the spot soon after receiving information and began an investigation.
Police Begin Probe Into Highway Collision
Officials said initial findings suggest a high-impact collision. The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation. The damaged vehicles were removed from the road to restore traffic flow.
Locals reported that the highway witnessed heavy movement due to Maghi Purnima travel. Police are checking whether speed or visibility issues contributed to the crash.
Three Dead in Mokama-Bound Accident in Patna District
Another fatal road accident took place in Patna district late Saturday night. The incident occurred on NH-33 near Sahri village under Ghoswari police station limits.
Five people were traveling on a jugad vehicle from Mehush Sheikhpura village. They were heading toward Mokama for the holy Ganga Snan. An unidentified vehicle hit their vehicle during the journey.
Munny Manjhi, aged 33, wife of Prayag Manjhi, died at the spot. Mahesh Manjhi, aged 30, son of Chand Manjhi, also lost his life. Sanjay Manjhi, aged 33, son of Ramswaroop Manjhi, died due to serious injuries.
Two Injured Shifted to NMCH Patna
Two other passengers sustained critical injuries in the accident. Ghanshyam Manjhi, son of Bachchu Manjhi, and Ashok Manjhi, son of Lachcho Manjhi, were referred to NMCH.
Doctors at NMCH stated that both patients remain under close medical observation. Their condition is reported to be serious. Police are trying to identify the unknown vehicle involved in the accident.
Accidents Raise Concerns Over Festival Travel Safety
The road accidents have raised concerns about travel safety during religious occasions. Many devotees travel at night using unsafe or overloaded vehicles. Highways witness increased traffic during festival days.
Officials have urged people to avoid unsafe transport methods. Police said checks will be intensified during future festivals to prevent such incidents.
Two Devotees Drown in Ganga at Patna
Apart from road accidents, two devotees drowned in the Ganga River in Patna. The incident occurred at Patipul Ghat in the Digha area during Maghi Purnima bathing rituals.
The victims were residents of Tatarpur village in Gaya district. They had arrived with family members to perform the holy bath. During the ritual, both were swept away by strong river currents.
The drowned persons have been identified as Guard Babu, aged 45, and Dhananjay Kumar, aged 25.
SDRF Launches Search Operation
Following the incident, the State Disaster Response Force began a search operation in the river. Rescue teams deployed boats and divers to locate the missing persons.
Local boatmen and volunteers also joined the search efforts. Family members, especially women, were seen crying at the ghat. The search continued for several hours amid strong water currents.
Officials stated that river conditions were dangerous due to increased flow. Despite safety advisories, a large crowd had gathered early in the morning.
Administration Issues Safety Appeal
Police and district officials said all incidents are being investigated separately. In road accident cases, vehicles involved have been seized. Witness statements are being recorded to determine responsibility.
In the drowning case, authorities appealed to devotees to follow safety instructions. Barricades and announcements were made at ghats, but crowd pressure made control difficult.
Maghi Purnima Turns Into Day of Mourning
Maghi Purnima is considered highly auspicious for Ganga Snan. Thousands of devotees travel long distances with religious belief. This year, the occasion turned tragic for several families across Bihar.
Relatives of the deceased demanded better safety arrangements. Many questioned traffic management and river security during major religious events.
Need for Stronger Safety Measures Highlighted
The incidents have once again highlighted the need for improved road and river safety. Experts suggest stricter monitoring of highways and controlled access to river ghats.
Authorities are expected to review arrangements for future festivals. Meanwhile, the state mourns the loss of lives on a day meant for faith, devotion, and spiritual cleansing.
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