One killed, one injured as tractor falls into canal

One youth was killed and another critically injured in a tragic mishap near the Panashta canal in Phagwara on Thursday morning.

The accident took place when a tractor transporting a sand-laden trolley reportedly lost control and plunged into the canal. According to reports, the vehicle’s balance suddenly shifted as the driver attempted to apply the brakes upon reaching the canal bridge. The tractor skidded and slipped into the canal, causing the trolley to overturn.

Two of the youths travelling on the tractor were trapped under the overturned trolley and suffered severe injuries. Chabbewal MLA Dr Ishank Chabbewal, who happened to be passing through the area that time, assisted in sending the injured to the Civil Hospital in Phagwara and alerted the police.

A police team soon reached the spot and with the help of locals, rescued the victims. At the hospital, doctors declared one of the youths, identified as Jaswant, brought dead. The other victim, Ram Chander, was found to be in a critical condition and was referred to a higher medical facility for specialised treatment.

Raja, a witness who was also on the tractor but escaped with minor injuries, told reporters that they were transporting sand from village Bham to Narur when the accident occurred. The police have launched further investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the mishap.