A tragic road accident claimed the lives of five people in the early hours of Sunday on the Mandapam–Thoothukudi National Highway, authorities reported.
According to police, a speeding lorry collided with a passing auto-rickshaw near Manapad junction, resulting in a devastating impact. The auto-rickshaw — carrying six passengers — was crushed under the heavy vehicle. Four occupants died on the spot, and one succumbed to injuries on the way to the hospital. One person remains critically injured and is undergoing treatment at a nearby medical facility.
Police said the deceased included men and women from local villages. The victims’ bodies were taken to Thoothukudi Government Hospital for post-mortem procedures, after which they will be handed over to family members.
Eyewitnesses told reporters that the lorry was travelling at high speed and failed to brake in time. Locals expressed anger at repeated accidents along this stretch, demanding better road safety measures.
The Thoothukudi Police have registered a case and are investigating the driver of the lorry under relevant sections of the law. Traffic officials are urging motorists to follow speed limits and exercise caution, especially on busy highway stretches.
Officials said they are reviewing CCTV footage as part of the probe, and strict action will be taken if negligence is established. The incident has again highlighted concerns over road safety and enforcement in the region.