86 Pilgrims Killed in India Truck Crash

VOA News
September 8, 2007

Authorities in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan say at least 86 people were killed late Friday when a truck packed with pilgrims veered off a mountainous road and plunged into a gorge.

The authorities say at least 60 others were injured when the driver lost control of the vehicle on a curve in a remote part of the rural state.

Officials say the truck, usually used for hauling large containers, was carrying more than 149 pilgrims to a temple fair at the time of the crash.

Local police are investigating the incident.

The state government says it will pay the families of the dead about $1,200 each in compensation.

Fatal road accidents are common in India, due mainly to poorly maintained roads and vehicles, and disregard for traffic rules.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.