13 killed as truck crashes into devotees in India

GWALIOR: At least 13 people were killed after a speeding truck ploughed into a crowd of devotees attending a Hindu religious festival in India’s Madhya Pradesh state, officials said on Sunday.

The heavily loaded truck reportedly lost control in the early hours of the morning and struck worshippers gathered at a temple in Gwalior. The incident left several people dead and others injured, according to reports citing hospital officials.

Indian President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the tragedy and offered condolences to the families of those killed. She also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan also expressed sorrow over the loss of lives. He extended his sympathies to the bereaved families and wished those injured a quick recovery.

The incident occurred a day after another deadly tragedy at a Hindu religious gathering in eastern India. At least 17 people were killed and around two dozen others injured in a stampede on Saturday. Officials said sudden rainfall may have triggered the incident.

Road accidents remain a major public safety concern in India. According to figures released by the country’s roads ministry, more than 183,000 people died in traffic accidents in 2025, averaging over 500 deaths a day.

Official data has linked many such fatalities to inadequate road infrastructure, poorly maintained vehicles and driver fatigue.