Eight Pilgrims Killed, 12 Injured in Vehicle Collision Near Mantralayam

A fatal road accident occurred near Chilakaladona village in the Yemmiganur mandal of Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh, resulting in the deaths of eight pilgrims and injuries to twelve others. The victims were traveling from Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, to visit the Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt in Mantralayam. Early on Thursday, April 16, 2026, their Bolero vehicle collided with a ready-mix concrete truck coming from the opposite direction. Police reported that the driver lost control and crossed into the opposing lane, causing the crash. Among the deceased were six women, including a three-year-old girl. The injured were admitted to hospitals in Kurnool and Yemmiganur, with two patients in critical condition due to head injuries. District Collector Dr. A. Siri visited the hospitalized victims to monitor their condition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state ministers expressed condolences and announced ex-gratia assistance for the affected families. Authorities are expediting post-mortem procedures to facilitate the return of the bodies to Karnataka. An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause and liability of the accident.