A tragic accident on the Noida Elevated Road claimed the life of a 30-year-old man and left his friend severely injured late Tuesday night. The duo, originally from Mizoram, was traveling on a bike when a speeding car rammed into them from behind, causing one of them to fall 30 feet from the elevated road.
Accident Details
The incident occurred near Sector 53 as the victims, Paubiak Thanga and Pauling Muana, were heading from their residence in Noida Sector 70 to Uttam Nagar in Delhi. While checking Google Maps for directions, they slowed down, only to be struck by a Honda City traveling at approximately 60 km/h.
The impact was catastrophic. Pauling, who was riding the bike, was thrown onto the elevated road, while Paubiak, riding pillion, was hurled over the flyover railing, landing on the road below. Passersby and emergency services rushed both victims to the district hospital. However, Paubiak succumbed to his injuries en route to a health facility in Delhi.
Victims and Investigation
Paubiak Thanga and Pauling Muana were reportedly colleagues residing in a rented flat in Noida. The car driver, whose identity has not been disclosed, faces charges of rash driving and causing death due to negligence.
“The Honda City was moving at high speed, and initial investigations suggest it failed to notice the bike slowing down. We are reviewing CCTV footage to ascertain the exact sequence of events,” said a senior police officer from Noida.
Safety Concerns on the Elevated Road
The Noida Elevated Road, designed to reduce congestion, has seen several accidents due to speeding and negligent driving. The absence of robust safety measures like protective barriers and proper signage has made the stretch perilous for commuters.
Residents and commuters frequently report drivers ignoring speed limits and overtaking recklessly on this stretch. While speed cameras and traffic monitoring exist, enforcement appears insufficient.
Eyewitness Accounts and Public Reaction
Eyewitnesses described the accident as harrowing, with one stating, “The impact of the collision was so strong that the pillion rider flew over the railing. The elevated road needs better safety measures to prevent such incidents.”
On social media, the tragedy sparked discussions about road safety and the responsibility of drivers to adhere to speed limits. Many users urged authorities to install higher railings and enforce stricter penalties for rash driving.
Authorities Respond
The police have registered a case against the driver of the Honda City. According to a statement, they are conducting a thorough investigation to determine if negligence or technical faults contributed to the crash.
The Noida Traffic Police has announced plans to enhance safety measures on the elevated road, including increasing surveillance and adding more speed-monitoring systems.
Road Safety Advocacy
The accident underscores the urgent need for improved road safety measures in Noida and other urban areas. Experts emphasize the importance of:
- Speed Limit Enforcement: Strict monitoring and fines for violators.
- Improved Infrastructure: Higher railings on elevated roads to prevent falls during accidents.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating drivers about safe practices.
Remembering Paubiak Thanga
Paubiak’s tragic death has left his family and friends in shock. A promising life was cut short due to what many describe as avoidable circumstances. His friend Pauling remains hospitalized with severe injuries and is said to be in stable condition.
As Noida mourns the loss of another life to reckless driving, the focus shifts to what can be done to prevent similar tragedies in the future. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the perils of speeding and the critical need for heightened vigilance on our roads.