Truck Overturns on NH-44 Flyover Near Rangoli Restaurant in Samba: Causing Chaos
Samba, May 15, 2025: A truck loaded with watermelons overturned on the flyover along National Highway 44 near Rangoli Restaurant in Samba, Jammu and Kashmir, early this morning, leading to significant traffic disruptions and raising fresh concerns about road safety on this stretch. The accident, attributed to poorly planned diversion signs, inadequate alignment, and the improper placement of large stone blocks on the flyover, has once again spotlighted the lack of effective planning by the National Highway authorities.
According to eyewitnesses, the truck, traveling at a moderate speed, lost control while navigating the flyover due to misleading diversion signage & inadequate alignment. The situation was exacerbated by large stone blocks placed haphazardly, which reportedly obstructed the truck’s path, leading to the vehicle overturning and spilling its load of watermelons across the highway.
Local residents and commuters expressed frustration, noting that this is not an isolated incident. “This stretch of NH-44 has become an accident hotspot,” said Rakesh Kumar, a frequent commuter. “The authorities have failed to address the poorly marked diversions and dangerous obstacles like stone blocks. How many more accidents will it take for them to act?”
No casualties were reported in the incident. Police and local authorities working to clear the watermelons and debris from the flyover trying to restore partial traffic flow by late morning.
The accident has sparked outrage among locals, who allege that the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has neglected safety protocols despite multiple accidents occurring on this stretch in recent months. “There’s no proper planning,” said Bittu Sharma, a local shopkeeper near Rangoli Restaurant. “The diversions are confusing, and the stone blocks are a hazard. They’re playing with people’s lives.”
Officials from the NHAI have yet to issue a formal statement. Commuters are advised to exercise caution and seek alternate routes until the flyover is fully cleared and safety measures are implemented.
This incident highlights the urgent need for better road management and stricter oversight by highway authorities to prevent further accidents on NH-44.
