Mumbai: Three city-based Class XII students were killed and two of their friends were injured when their their car collided with a tempo near Khalapur toll plaza on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. Police said the incident took place at 9.30 a.m.
They said the deceased were identified as Faizan Shaikh (19), Swaddha Dubey (17) and Shraddha Morya (18). Faizan was driving the car, while Swaddha was in the passenger seat next to him. Both were killed on the spot. The victims were taken to the Primary Health Centre in Khalapur, where they were declared ‘dead on arrival’. Shraddha succumbed to her injuries on the way to MGM Hospital in Kamothe. All five were friends and students of a Thane college.
Dr. (Lt. Gen.) Kuldip Raj Salgotra, medical superintendent, MGM hospital, said, “Of the three who were brought to the hospital, one was declared dead before admission. The others are being treated for superficial wounds.”
Farhan Shaikh, Faizan’s father, said, “I was informed by the police that that my son is no more. He was in Class XII and was preparing for his board exams. He wanted to take this trip with his college friends before the board exam, as they were stressed and wanted to relax.” He said Faizan and his friends were driving to Lonavla in his car, when he lost control and hit the tempo ahead of his car. According to Head Constable S.Mhatre, Khalapur police station, tempo driver said in his statement that all he felt was a minor jerk.
Mr. Shaikh said the trip was impromptu. “They all just wanted to breathe, beat the the exam pressure, so we allowed them as they were to sit for their exams next week.” he said.
