A horrific road accident at Sindolim in Sancoale on Friday afternoon claimed the life of a 37-year-old motorcyclist after a speeding Mercedes allegedly rammed his bike and dragged it for nearly two kilometres before both vehicles caught fire and were completely gutted.
The incident occurred at around 2 pm, triggering panic in the area and raising fresh concerns over reckless driving and road safety.
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The deceased has been identified as Ashok Chavan, 37, a resident of Shindolim, Sancoale. He was riding a motorcycle when it was allegedly hit by a Mercedes car.
According to preliminary information, the impact was so severe that the motorcycle became trapped under the Mercedes, which continued moving along the road, dragging the bike for nearly two kilometres before the vehicles came to a halt.
Both vehicles subsequently caught fire, with flames engulfing the Mercedes and motorcycle. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot and firefighters managed to douse the blaze. The Mercedes driver was also rescued from the vehicle.
Verna Police reached the scene and initiated proceedings, registering an accident case and beginning an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
Sources claimed that the Mercedes driver, a resident of Fatorda, was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident
The crash caused considerable panic in Sindolim, particularly as the area sees movement of schoolchildren and pedestrians during the afternoon. Residents said it was fortunate that the speeding vehicle did not hit schoolchildren or other pedestrians, which could have resulted in an even greater tragedy.
Congress leader Olencio Simoes condemned the incident and demanded strict action against the driver. He also urged the police to consider registering a murder case if the investigation establishes that the vehicle was driven deliberately or recklessly despite the alleged intoxication.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over drunk and reckless driving, with residents calling for stronger enforcement and greater vigilance, particularly around areas frequented by schoolchildren and pedestrians.
Police are continuing their investigation.
