Tragic Multi-Vehicle Collision on Delhi–Agra Expressway in Dense Fog Claims Several Lives

A devastating multi-vehicle collision on the Delhi–Agra Expressway in the early hours of Tuesday left at least 13 people dead and scores injured after several buses and cars crashed into each other amid dense fog. The accident triggered a massive fire, turning the busy high-speed corridor into a scene of chaos and destruction.

The incident occurred before dawn on the Agra–Noida stretch of the expressway near Mathura, where visibility was severely reduced due to thick winter fog. Officials said vehicles travelling at high speed were unable to spot stationary or slow-moving traffic ahead, leading to a chain-reaction collision involving multiple buses and smaller vehicles.

The impact of the crash was severe, with several vehicles catching fire almost immediately. Passengers were trapped inside the burning buses and cars, resulting in heavy casualties. Eyewitnesses reported hearing loud explosions followed by flames and thick smoke, as survivors attempted to escape and help others in the aftermath of the collision.

Emergency services rushed to the site soon after receiving alerts. Firefighters worked to douse the flames while police and medical teams carried out rescue operations. Injured passengers were pulled from the wreckage and rushed to nearby hospitals in Mathura and surrounding districts. Many victims suffered burn injuries and fractures, with several reported to be in critical condition.

Authorities initially feared a higher death toll due to the scale of the fire, but later confirmed that at least 13 people had lost their lives. Several bodies were found badly charred, making identification difficult. Officials said forensic procedures may be required to establish the identities of some of the victims.

The expressway was closed for several hours to allow rescue and clearance operations to continue. Cranes and heavy machinery were deployed to remove the charred remains of buses and cars from the road. Traffic movement was gradually restored after the debris was cleared and safety checks were completed.

The Uttar Pradesh government expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and announced financial assistance for the families of those killed, as well as for the injured. Senior officials have been directed to ensure proper medical treatment for victims and to monitor relief efforts closely. Reduced visibility, high speeds and inadequate response time often prove fatal on expressways. Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution, reduce speed and follow safety advisories, especially during early morning hours when fog conditions are at their worst.