PM Modi Condoles Kurnool Tragedy, Announces ₹2 Lakh Ex-Gratia for Victims’ Families

At least eight people lost their lives and more than a dozen others were injured in a tragic road accident in Kurnool district on Thursday, in a devastating mishap involving a group of pilgrims travelling near Mantralayam.

According to officials, the accident occurred on a national highway near Chilakaladona village, close to the Karnataka border, when a vehicle carrying around 20–21 passengers collided head-on with a speeding lorry . The high-impact crash left eight people dead , including women and a child, while 10 to 13 others sustained serious injuries . Several victims died instantly at the scene, while others succumbed during treatment at nearby medical facilities.

The passengers were reportedly devotees from Karnataka, travelling to or returning from a religious visit to Mantralayam. The sudden tragedy has left families in shock and mourning.

Local authorities , along with the police , rushed to the accident site soon after receiving information. Emergency teams carried out swift rescue and relief operations, shifting the injured to hospitals in Kurnool and surrounding areas. Some of the injured are said to be in critical condition and are undergoing intensive care.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. He also wished a speedy recovery for the injured. The Prime Minister announced compensation of Rs. 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 for the injured .