Nishar Mohammed
Sri Vijaya Puram, July 18:A major accident was averted today in the Dollygunj area of Sri Vijaya Puram when a Suzuki Ecco van, reportedly carrying seven schoolchildren, lost control and plunged into a roadside drain in front of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) godown.
According to preliminary reports, the accident occurred when the driver lost control of the vehicle while descending the slope from Attam Pahad area to Dollygunj. Eyewitnesses said the van was moving at high speed, failed to take a turn, crashed into a wall, and fell into the deep drain. The impact was so severe that the wall was damaged, and the van sustained significant damage.
Sources informed Andaman Sheekha that brake failure is suspected to be the cause of the mishap. The driver reportedly told locals that both the foot brake and the handbrake failed while trying to stop the vehicle. Some students inside the van also confirmed the driver’s version of events.
In a remarkable display of courage and presence of mind, nearby shopkeepers and public rushed to the scene without hesitation. They jumped into the drain and rescued all seven children, including one whose leg was trapped in the mud and was carefully pulled out.
Initial medical assessments confirmed that all children are safe, though a few sustained minor injuries and scratches. One child reportedly had a cut on the forehead. All injured students were promptly taken to the hospital, where their condition is stated to be stable. The driver is also safe, though visibly shaken by the incident. Meanwhile a FIR has been registered against the driver and further investigations are on.
