Fatal Pre‑Dawn Highway Crash Near Katraj: Truck Driver Dies, Several Passengers Injured

Early‑morning collision between a truck and bus near Katraj Ghat kills truck driver and injures multiple passengers, causing highway disruption and emergency rescue efforts.

Pune | 24 February, 2026- In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a serious accident occurred on the Pune-Bengaluru highway near the Katraj Ghat stretch, claiming the life of a truck driver and injuring several bus passengers. The collision took place around 4 a.m. in the valley bridge area between the Katraj Tunnel and Navale Bridge, when a fully loaded truck struck a bus from behind. The truck, carrying iron pipes and metal rods, suffered severe damage, with its front cabin completely crushed upon impact.

Emergency teams, including traffic police and fire brigade personnel, rushed to the scene to manage the aftermath. The truck’s helper was trapped inside the mangled cabin beneath heavy cargo, and rescue crews used hydraulic cutting tools to extricate him safely. Several bus passengers sustained minor injuries and were immediately transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Authorities confirmed that the truck driver succumbed to his injuries during medical care. Early-morning travel on steep ghat stretches presents significant risks, especially for heavy vehicles navigating sharp curves and gradients. The collision also caused major traffic disruptions, with long queues forming as officials worked to clear the wreckage and restore traffic flow.

Police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash, focusing on factors such as vehicle speed, possible brake failure, driver fatigue, and load stability. Road safety experts highlight that early-morning darkness, heavy loads, and limited visibility on ghat stretches significantly increase the risk of high-impact accidents.

Local commuters emphasize the need for enhanced safety measures, including stricter speed enforcement, additional warning signs, better cargo securing, and driver training programs. With growing traffic on highways connecting Pune to major cities, especially from industrial and commercial vehicles, authorities stress the importance of heightened caution, adherence to traffic rules, and preventive infrastructure measures.

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