Kangra: Two Drivers Dies as Massive Banyan Tree Falls on Brick-Laden Truck During Storm

Kangra, May 20:
A tragic accident was reported from Khawa village under Nagrota Bagwan sub-division of Kangra district, where a massive banyan tree fell on a stationary truck during a fierce storm, killing two men on the spot.

The deceased have been identified as Sanjeev Kumar (42), a resident of Dehra, and Tek Chand (51) from Rihdi village in Khawa.

According to initial reports, the truck—loaded with bricks—had traveled to Nagrota Bagwan and was returning when the driver and his associate stopped briefly in Khawa village for tea. Moments after they reboarded the truck, a strong gust of wind uprooted a large, aging banyan tree by the roadside, which came crashing down directly onto the vehicle.

The impact was devastating. The truck was completely crushed under the weight of the tree, and both men were killed instantly. Local residents, along with police and rescue teams, rushed to the scene. Two JCB machines were deployed to assist in the recovery operation, which lasted nearly two hours before both bodies were extricated from the wreckage.

Confirming the incident, DSP Ankit Sharma said that the bodies were sent for post-mortem to Dr. Rajendra Prasad Medical College, Tanda, after which they were handed over to the families. He added that the accident is being treated as a natural calamity, and the police have registered a case and are proceeding with due legal formalities.