At least 13 people have been killed and several others injured after a speeding truck ploughed into a crowd of Hindu devotees gathered for a religious festival at a temple in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, central India.
The fatal crash occurred in the early hours of Sunday when the heavily loaded truck reportedly lost control and rammed into the gathering, turning a religious celebration into a scene of tragedy.
According to the Press Trust of India (PTI), hospital officials confirmed that 13 people had died, while several others sustained injuries. The circumstances that led to the crash remain unclear, as authorities are expected to investigate the incident.
India’s President, Droupadi Murmu, expressed sadness over the tragedy, extending her condolences to the families of those killed and wishing the injured a speedy recovery.
In a statement shared on social media, Murmu said she was deeply saddened by the loss of lives and offered prayers for those receiving medical treatment.
The incident has renewed concerns about road safety in India, where traffic accidents continue to claim thousands of lives annually.
India recorded more than 183,000 road traffic deaths in 2025, according to figures attributed to the country’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Road safety challenges in the country have been linked to several factors, including inadequate road infrastructure, poorly maintained vehicles and driver fatigue.
With a population of approximately 1.4 billion, India faces significant challenges in improving road safety and reducing fatal crashes.
The latest incident highlights the dangers posed by heavy vehicles losing control in areas where large crowds have gathered, particularly during religious celebrations and other public events.
Authorities are expected to establish the full circumstances of the crash as further details emerge.