Vijayawada: In a tragic accident, seven labourers lost their lives, and one was injured when a van carrying cashew nuts overturned into a dry irrigation canal near Chilakavaripakalu in Devarapalli mandal late Tuesday night.
According to the police, the deceased have been identified as Devabathula Buraiah, 40, Thammireddy Satyanarayana, 45, P. China Musalaiah, 35, Kathava Krishna, 40, Kathava Sathipandu, 40, Thadi Krishna, 45, and Bokka Prasad.
The incident occurred when the van, loaded with cashew nut bags, reached the Aripatidibbalu-Chinnaigudem road. The driver lost control, causing the van to swerve into a roadside canal. Eight labourers sitting atop the cashew bags were trapped under the bags, while the driver, cleaner, and another labourer in the cabin escaped unhurt.
Local villagers and the police rushed to the scene to rescue the trapped labourers. Unfortunately, seven labourers died on the spot. The lone survivor was shifted to a government hospital for treatment. The police have booked a case, arrested the driver, and launched an investigation.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed shock and anguish over the tragic incident, extending his condolences to the families of the deceased. He also inquired about the survivor’s condition and assured that the government would provide assistance to the bereaved families.
Former chief minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy also expressed concern and demanded better medical care for the survivor, while urging the government to support the victims' families.
Upon learning about the tragic death of the seven labourers, Minister for Tourism and Culture Kandula Durgesh rushed to Rajahmundry from Bengaluru. Along with East Godavari district collector Prasanthi, he visited the homes of the bereaved families and handed over an ex gratia of `5 lakh to each.
