A truck ran over pilgrims near the Sheetla Mata Temple in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, on Sunday, killing 12 people and injuring 29. The incident occurred around 1:30 AM when a truck, reportedly overloaded with paddy, broke through police barricades on a restricted road and struck the devotees before crashing into the temple’s gate and outer wall.
Gwalior Senior Superintendent of Police Dharmveer Singh confirmed that 39 people were taken to the hospital, and 12 of them succumbed to their injuries. Five to six patients sustained critical injuries, including fractures, while others suffered minor injuries. Two police personnel on duty were also injured and are receiving treatment.
The Indian Express reported 13 deaths and 40 injuries, while Gulf News reported 12 deaths and several injuries. The Hindu stated 12 deaths and 29 injuries.
Investigation Underway
Gwalior Collector Ruchika Chauhan stated that ambulances and other vehicles were immediately dispatched to the scene upon receiving news of the accident. She added that medical examinations, including CT scans and X-rays, are being conducted on the injured to determine their treatment needs.
Authorities have initiated an investigation into how the truck managed to enter the restricted stretch despite police checkpoints and barricades being in place during the Navratri festival, which is being celebrated from October 11 to October 19, 2026. A team from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) has also been sent to mechanically inspect the truck to ascertain if a vehicle fault contributed to the crash.
An eyewitness reported that the truck appeared to be overloaded and suddenly lost control, running over people and shops. The witness described ongoing confusion following the accident, with several people dying at the scene.
Background and Context
This tragic incident adds to a series of road accidents in Gwalior. In March 2026, five people died returning from the Sheetla Mata Temple, and in September 2026, three separate accidents within 24 hours claimed three lives. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav is scheduled to host the Urban Conclave 2026 in Indore on October 28, where urban development and infrastructure investment will be discussed.
Unconfirmed Details
The nationalities of those who died in the accident have not yet been confirmed. Information regarding the condition and nationality of the truck driver is also unavailable. The exact cause of the accident, specifically whether it was due to mechanical failure or human error, has not yet been determined. The full identities of those who lost their lives have also not been publicly released.
