A devastating road accident occurred at Salpe Ghat in Phaltan taluka of Satara district around 2:30 a.m. on Sunday night. A private travel bus carrying devotees from Ichalkaranji to Ujjain for a pilgrimage was struck by a truck coming from the opposite direction, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuries to several others.
According to local authorities, the incident took place near the Biroba Temple on the descent through Salpe Ghat via Wathar station. The bus, bearing registration number MH 04 CP 2452, was carrying a group of women devotees when it was hit by a truck (MH 42 BF 7784) traveling from Lonand toward Satara. The impact was severe, causing extensive damage to both vehicles.
Among the deceased were the bus driver and two women passengers. Several others sustained injuries and were rushed to the Satara District Government Hospital by ambulances. One woman, who was critically injured, succumbed to her injuries during treatment.
Local villagers and the Lonand police responded promptly after receiving information about the crash. Their swift action in assisting the injured likely saved many lives. The accident has cast a shadow of grief over what was meant to be a spiritual journey for the pilgrims.