Bengaluru, March 22: A tragic midnight road accident near Rani Cross on the outskirts of Devanahalli claimed the lives of three women and left eight others injured, triggering fresh concerns over highway safety near Kempegowda International Airport.
According to police, the accident occurred when a Tata Traveller (TT) vehicle carrying 13 passengers collided with a speeding lorry while attempting a U-turn from the highway to a service road. The impact was so severe that three women—identified as Jayamma (60), Yashodamma (60), and Ganga (38)—died on the spot.
The victims were part of a 12-member group from the same locality, who had planned a 15-day pilgrimage trip to Kashi. They were en route from Tiptur to Kempegowda International Airport in a TT vehicle around 10 PM, aiming to catch an early morning flight scheduled at 6 AM.
Sources revealed that the driver was navigating using Google Maps and reportedly missed the first service road turn near the accident spot. While attempting a U-turn at the next junction, the TT vehicle suddenly moved towards the centre of the road, leading to a collision with a lorry traveling alongside.
The left side of the TT vehicle was completely crushed in the collision. The three deceased women were seated on single seats on that side, resulting in fatal injuries.
Eight passengers, including the driver, sustained injuries and were rushed to a private hospital in Devanahalli. One of the injured, Kempamma, is said to be in critical condition and has been shifted to a Bengaluru hospital for advanced treatment.
Traffic ACP Pradeep confirmed the sequence of events, stating that the accident likely occurred due to a combination of route confusion and overspeeding.
“The TT vehicle was heading towards the airport. The driver, relying on Google Maps, missed the correct turn and moved towards the centre line while attempting a U-turn. A lorry traveling alongside hit the vehicle. Overspeeding is suspected,” he said.
The lorry driver reportedly fled the scene after the accident. A case has been registered, and further investigation is underway.
The incident highlights growing risks on airport access roads, especially during night travel, navigation errors, and high-speed vehicle movement.
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