Tragedy Strikes Devotees in Mantralayam Accident

A tragic accident in Mantralayam, Kurnool district, has led to the deaths of eight devotees, including five women, after their Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) collided with a tanker. The collision occurred as the group traveled for Sri Raghavendra Swamy's darshan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, offering condolences on social media. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh to the families of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 for the injured. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu also expressed shock and instructed officials to ensure optimal care for the injured.

The accident occurred around 3 am on NH 167 due to driver drowsiness, with the vehicle traveling in the wrong direction. The LCV carried nearly 20 passengers, increasing the accident's severity. Survivors with critical injuries were referred to Kurnool Government General Hospital for advanced treatment.

(With inputs from agencies.)