A nilgai ran across the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and hit a convoy accompanying former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, who is in hospital with injuries along with a head constable from the Delhi Police.
The incident occurred near the Bhandarej exit of the expressway around 1:45 pm on Friday. Abdullah, one of the main leaders of the National Conference, was going to Ajmer when this happened.
The injured officer, Head Constable Pappuram Meena, was driving an escort vehicle carrying four police personnel. Officials confirmed that Abdullah was in a different vehicle within the convoy.
Head Constable was Injured but Stable
When the Innova vehicle collided with the nilgai, Meena sustained injuries and was immediately rushed to the district hospital. “He received primary treatment and was discharged shortly after,” stated Arvind Kumar, the head constable of Sadar police station.
Abdullah’s vehicle and all the convoy cars stopped after the accident. Members of the escort team continued in another vehicle towards Ajmer.
Farooq Abdullah Performs Dargah Prayer at Iconic Ajmer Shrine
He paid obeisance at the revered dargah of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti after reaching Ajmer. Farooq offered prayers for the well-being of the country and the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“I prayed for the country’s brotherhood and progress, and for the people of Jammu and Kashmir to overcome the challenges they have faced over the past decade,” Abdullah told reporters.
Prayers for Actor Saif Ali Khan
He said that he also prayed for Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan, who was recently attacked at his home in Mumbai. “I requested Allah to ensure the safety of our people and prevent such incidents in our country,” he said.
Thanking Allah for Khan’s survival, Abdullah wished the actor a speedy recovery.
Delhi-Mumbai Expressway Incident Highlights Wildlife Encounters
The nilgai collision brings into focus wildlife interactions on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, which cuts through areas of high animal activity. The incidents call for more stringent safety measures for the movement of commuters and wildlife.
Officially Tracking Progress
Though Abdullah’s convoy continued on its journey without further delays, the accident underscores the difficulties in ensuring safety on highways that cut across natural habitats. No one was injured in the convoy beyond the nilgai.
This incident not only depicts the unpredictability of road travel in wildlife-prone areas but also gives a glimpse of the commitment of leaders like Abdullah, who continue to work under trying circumstances.
