At least four dead after several vehicles catch fire in collision on Delhi-Agra Expressway

Multiple casualties are feared after several vehicles caught fire on the Delhi–Agra Expressway in Mathura in a major road collision due to dense fog on early Tuesday (Dec 16). The accident happened around 4 am. A harrowing video from the scene showing flames engulfing vehicles has gone viral on social media. Seven buses, of which one was a roadway bus, and the other six were sleeper buses, and three cars were involved in the accident.

SP Mathura Rural, Suresh Chandra Rawat, said that the accident took place at Milestone 127 on the Agra-Noida lane of the expressway.

“The accident took place at Milestone 127 on the Agra-Noida lane of the expressway. There was a collision of three cars, after which seven buses collided with them, of which 1 is a roadway bus, and the other six are sleeper buses,” Rawat said.

The SP added that 11 fire tenders responded to the scene and the fire was brought under control.

He further said that “4 dead bodies have been recovered so far. Rescue work is underway.”

Detailing the accident, an eyewitness recalled, “An accident took place and nearly 3-4 buses caught fire… I was sleeping when the accident occurred. The bus was fully occupied. All the seats were full. The accident occurred around 4 am.”

UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and has directed officials to expedite relief and rescue operations. He has also ordered authorities to ensure the injured are given proper medical treatment.

The chief minister announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives in the accident and Rs 50,000 for those who were wounded.