One person died while many others were injured after at least 10 vehicles, including cars, buses and trucks, collided with each other on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway near Rajasthan's Alwar district on Sunday morning due to low visibility caused by heavy fog, officials said.
The accident occurred as visibility dropped drastically, causing a bus to crash and triggering a chain reaction of collisions. The incident caused panic among drivers, many of whom abandoned their vehicles and fled to safety.
Subhash, a 26-year-old resident of Kotputli, lost his life in the accident, while five others remain critically injured and are undergoing treatment, police said.
The rescue teams from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) worked throughout the day to clear the wreckage and restore normal traffic. Barricades were placed at strategic locations to manage traffic and warn drivers of the dangerous conditions ahead.
In response, the expressway administration has implemented several measures to enhance safety. Display boards have been installed at various points to provide
real-time weather updates and safety guidelines.
Vehicles are being fitted with reflectors and radium stickers to improve visibility, while similar precautions are being taken at flyovers and electric poles.
The authorities have also issued an advisory urging drivers to avoid speeding, maintain safe distances, use fog lights, and refrain from travelling during dense fog unless absolutely necessary.
This accident is the third such incident on the expressway in the past two days, all caused by poor visibility due to heavy fog.
NHAI Project Director PK Kaushik emphasised the importance of caution, advising drivers to avoid overtaking.
"Drivers should prioritize safety by avoiding halts in the middle of the road, overtaking, and excessive speeding. Always wear seatbelts, equip vehicles with radium stickers, and refrain from using mobile phones while driving," Kaushik said.
"During foggy conditions, maintain a safe distance, use fog lights instead of high beams, and avoid unnecessary travel. Stay cautious and drive responsibly," he added.