Rider killed as tanker runs over him in Bhatkal; wife grievously injured

Bhatkal, Aug 23: (Bhatkallys News Bureau)  A tragic road accident on National Highway 66 near Noor Masjid in Bhatkal on Saturday morning claimed the life of a 61-year-old rider, while his wife sustained serious injuries after a speeding tanker rammed into their two-wheeler.

The deceased has been identified as Eshwara Naik (61), a resident of Murdeshwara. His wife, Bharathi Naik (47), who was riding pillion, has been admitted to the Bhatkal Government Hospital with grievous injuries.

According to reports, the couple was travelling to Bhatkal to attend a programme when the tanker, moving at high speed along the highway, hit their bike from behind. The impact threw Naik onto the road, where the tanker ran over him, leading to his instant death.

The accident has once again brought to light the growing concerns of local residents over the incomplete highway widening work along the stretch of NH-66 passing through Bhatkal. Citizens have been repeatedly complaining about the sharp increase in heavy vehicle traffic and the rising number of accidents between Quality Hotel and Noor Masjid, and also between Shamsuddin Circle and Nawayat Colony.

Residents say pedestrians and two-wheeler riders face severe risks daily as there is no service road provided by the authorities to ease traffic movement. They have urged officials to expedite the completion of the highway widening project to prevent further loss of lives.