Gwalior: The death toll has risen to 15 after a speeding truck crashed into a crowd of devotees near the entrance of Shitla Mata Mandir on the outskirts of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.
At least 33 people were injured, including five who remain in critical condition. Two police personnel deployed on duty also sustained injuries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and announced ex-gratia compensation of ₹2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased victim and ₹50,000 for every injured person.
Distressed to learn about the loss of lives due to a mishap in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. My condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each of those who lost their lives. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 18, 2026
Authorities have launched an investigation into the accident to establish the circumstances that led to the truck ploughing into the crowd.
The incident has raised concerns over crowd safety and traffic management near the temple, where devotees had gathered.
The injured are receiving medical attention, while officials continue to assess the situation and investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
