Traffic Snarls on Wayanad Ghat Road After Accident

Rapid Summary:

• A parcel truck caused a major pile-up on Wayanad Ghat Road, specifically at the eighth hairpin curve, on Monday afternoon.
• The truck was traveling from Bengaluru to Kayamkulam when it reportedly experienced brake failure.
• It rammed into multiple vehicles ahead, fully crushing one car in the process.
• Traffic congestion lasted for hours along the 16-km stretch from Lakkidi to Adivaram; even ambulances were caught in the gridlock.
• Vehicles blocking the road were cleared using cranes to restore movement.
• Five individuals sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment at a hospital in Kozhikode.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The accident highlights critical issues with vehicle maintenance and road safety in India. Brake failure, frequently enough linked to inadequate upkeep or sudden mechanical faults, underscores the importance of stringent inspections for heavy vehicles traversing challenging terrains like Wayanad’s Ghat Roads. This incident also reveals vulnerabilities in emergency response systems during prolonged traffic jams since ambulances became trapped alongside other vehicles. For areas prone to such accidents due to steep inclines and sharp curves, enhanced regulatory oversight and contingency planning coudl help mitigate future risks.Rapid resolution using roadside assistance tools like cranes provides a temporary fix but does not address prevention measures necessary for improving road safety standards.

Read more: Published – August 25, 2025 10:53 pm IST