A 16-year-old schoolgirl lost her life and three others, including two minors, were injured after an e-rickshaw overturned at Paharganj Chowk in central Delhi on Monday morning. Police said the incident was caused by rash and reckless driving as the driver allegedly jumped a red signal and sped through the busy intersection.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Nidhin Valsan confirmed that the accused driver, identified as 46-year-old Dilip, a resident of Paharganj, was caught on the spot with the help of locals and later arrested. His e-rickshaw has been seized, and the case has been referred to the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) for further legal proceedings.
Accident Near Police Station
According to investigators, the crash occurred around 7:30 am in front of the Paharganj police station. The vehicle was carrying one male passenger and three schoolgirls at the time. Police said the driver, in a bid to rush past the traffic signal, lost control of the vehicle and it toppled over.
“One of the girls suffered a grievous head injury and was declared dead on arrival at the hospital. Two other girls sustained injuries, while the adult passenger, identified as Mohammad Jahid, suffered a leg injury,” the DCP stated.
Eyewitness Account
In his statement to police, Jahid recounted how the incident unfolded. He said he had boarded the e-rickshaw with the three girls when the driver ignored the red signal at Paharganj Chowk and accelerated at high speed. The sudden imbalance caused the vehicle to overturn violently, throwing passengers off their seats.
Police have preserved the deceased girl’s body for post-mortem examination. The two injured minors continue to receive treatment, while Jahid is also undergoing medical care for his injuries.
Strict Action Promised
Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken in the case. “The driver’s negligence not only caused the loss of a young life but also endangered others on the road. A detailed investigation is underway, and necessary legal measures will be initiated,” DCP Valsan said in a statement.
This tragic accident has reignited concerns over the safety of e-rickshaws in Delhi, with repeated complaints of untrained and rash driving in high-traffic zones, endangering both passengers and pedestrians. Authorities are expected to examine the driver’s records and enforce accountability through penal action.
