Four School Students Killed in Kerala Truck Accident

Palakkad: Four Class 8 students from a government school in Kerala died on Thursday after a truck ran them over at Panayampadam in Palakkad district. The accident happened around 4:15 pm on the Palakkad-Kozhikode National Highway (NH 966).

According to officials, the truck driver lost control while taking a turn in the rain. The truck hit a tree and a compound wall before overturning onto the students, who were walking home from school. The students were identified as Irfana, Midha, Ridha, and Aysha, from the Government Higher Secondary School in Karimba. Another student narrowly escaped.

Police have taken the truck driver and cleaner into custody.

The accident sparked protests from locals, who said this stretch of the highway is an accident-prone area. “We’ve complained many times, but no action has been taken,” said one of the protesters.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed sorrow over the incident, calling it “shocking and tragic.” He assured a full investigation and strict action.

Officials said the district collector will hold a meeting to discuss safety measures. “We will review CCTV footage and consider temporary steps to reduce accidents,” said a senior officer.

The tragedy has left the community shocked and grieving.