Pregnant woman among 2 killed as electric pole falls in Bengaluru; JCB driver detained

Bengaluru witnessed a tragic incident on Monday evening when an electric pole collapsed on two women, one of whom was pregnant, in the Suddaguntepalya area. The accident, which also left two children injured, occurred during ongoing road repair work.

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The victims, identified as Sumati (35) and Soni Kumari (35), were returning home with their children after tuition classes when the mishap took place. Soni, originally from Bihar, had been residing in Bengaluru for eight years with her children, while Sumati, a Tamil Nadu native, lived with her husband and family.

Authorities reported that the accident happened when a JCB driver, engaged in the repair work, reversed the vehicle and accidentally struck an electric pole. The impact caused the pole to topple onto the women and children. Responding swiftly, Baiyyappanahalli police seized the JCB and detained the driver for further investigation.

Local residents expressed outrage over the incident, alleging that the driver was wearing headphones and failed to hear warnings when the vehicle made contact with the pole. The incident sparked demands for stricter safety measures at construction sites.