KKN Gurugram Desk | A tragic road accident occurred near the Datkali temple in Dhulkot, a well-known location on the Dehradun-Rishikesh road, where two cars collided head-on in a devastating crash. The collision resulted in the immediate death of one person, while two others sustained serious injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital.

The accident site turned chaotic as both vehicles were severely damaged in the impact. Eyewitnesses described the collision as “violent,” with car debris scattered across the road, temporarily halting traffic in both directions.

Accident Details: High-Speed Collision Near Dhulkot Datkali Temple

According to local reports, the collision occurred in the early hours of Friday morning near the Datkali Mandir, a popular religious and transit point on the highway connecting Dehradun to Rishikesh and Haridwar.

The two vehicles, reportedly a sedan and an SUV, were traveling in opposite directions when they collided head-on. The impact was so intense that both vehicles were completely mangled, with engine parts and glass shards strewn across the roadway.

Key Accident Highlights:

• Location: Near Datkali Temple, Dhulkot, Dehradun

• Time: Early morning, June 20

• Vehicles Involved: Two private cars (SUV and sedan)

• Fatalities: 1 confirmed dead at the scene

• Injuries: 2 critically injured

• Traffic Disruption: Temporary blockage on the route due to vehicle debris

The exact cause of the collision is still under investigation, though initial speculation points to over-speeding or possible overtaking on a blind curve.

Eyewitness Account: “It Sounded Like an Explosion”

Locals who reside near the Datkali temple area told KKNLive that the sound of the crash was so loud that it resembled an explosion. Many rushed to the spot within seconds and found the vehicles almost unrecognizable.

“One of the cars had its front half completely destroyed. The people inside were motionless. We had to pull them out through the broken windows,” said one eyewitness.

Residents quickly informed the local police and emergency services, while also taking immediate steps to rescue the injured. With no ambulance in sight at first, locals used private vehicles to transport the injured individuals to the nearby Graphic Era Hospital, located just a few kilometers from the accident site.

Injured Shifted to Graphic Era Hospital

Both injured victims were shifted to Graphic Era Hospital in Dehradun, where they are currently under observation in the intensive care unit (ICU). Medical staff have confirmed that the injuries are serious but manageable if complications do not arise.

The identity of the deceased has not been officially released, as authorities are in the process of notifying the family.

Police Statement and Ongoing Investigation

A police team from the nearest outpost arrived at the scene shortly after the crash was reported. The wreckage was cleared from the road, and traffic was restored after a delay of nearly an hour.

Officials from Dehradun Police have confirmed that a case has been registered, and a detailed investigation is underway. The vehicles have been impounded for forensic examination, and authorities are checking for:

• Driver licenses and vehicle registrations

• Insurance documents

• Possible mechanical failures

• CCTV footage from nearby shops or traffic cams

Police are also trying to determine whether alcohol consumption, fatigue, or distraction may have contributed to the crash.

High-Risk Zone: Datkali Area a Known Accident Hotspot

The stretch of road near Datkali Temple in Dhulkot has long been considered an accident-prone zone, with sharp turns, blind spots, and a lack of proper lighting at night. Over the years, multiple accidents have been reported in this area, especially involving vehicles coming from Haridwar or Rishikesh heading toward Dehradun.

Traffic authorities have previously issued warnings, and temporary speed limits have been recommended. However, enforcement remains a challenge, especially during early mornings and late-night hours when patrolling is minimal.

Locals and commuters have repeatedly requested the installation of:

• Speed breakers

• Reflective signboards

• CCTV surveillance

• Dedicated traffic personnel during peak hours

Public Safety Appeal by Authorities

Following today’s fatal accident, the Dehradun police have once again urged drivers to exercise caution, particularly on winding stretches near temples and ghat sections.

In an official statement, the police warned:

“We appeal to all motorists to maintain speed limits, avoid overtaking on blind turns, and always wear seatbelts. This unfortunate incident could have been avoided with more vigilance.”

The District Road Safety Committee is expected to convene in the coming week to discuss potential safety measures, including road engineering improvements and stricter surveillance in accident-prone zones.

Community Reaction: Grief, Shock, and Renewed Demands

The local community near Datkali Temple expressed shock and sorrow over the incident. Social media groups and WhatsApp communities shared the news widely, with many calling for stricter enforcement of speed limits and installation of speed-monitoring devices on the route.

The deceased individual, believed to be a resident of nearby Harrawala, was known locally. Community members plan to hold a candlelight vigil in the coming days to raise awareness about road safety in Uttarakhand’s hill districts.

This tragic accident near Datkali Temple in Dehradun is yet another reminder of the urgent need to prioritize road safety in Uttarakhand, particularly in hilly areas that see high tourist and local traffic.

While authorities are investigating the cause, the larger issue remains: How many more lives must be lost before safer roads and responsible driving become the norm?

Stay updated with KKNLive.com for real-time updates on Dehradun road accidents, Uttarakhand traffic news, and statewide road safety initiatives.