A drunk driver knocked down four pedestrians at two separate spots in quick succession in the Mukhani area of Haldwani, Uttarakhand, on Sunday night. A woman is critically injured and is undergoing treatment at a hospital.
According to The Tribune, the driver, identified as Pankaj (45), a resident of Mukhani, was driving from Unchapul toward the city via Kaladhungi Road. Police said he first hit three pedestrians between the Mukhani and Kaladhungi intersections.
Second Hit Near Temple Leaves Woman Critical
After the first collision, Pankaj drove past the Jail Road junction toward the Kalu Siddha Baba temple. There, he hit a woman walking on the roadside. The impact threw her several feet away. Bystanders rushed her to a hospital, where she is currently undergoing treatment. Police confirmed she is in critical condition.
Angry Crowd Thrashes Driver Before Police Rescue
An angry crowd dragged Pankaj out of his vehicle and thrashed him before a police team arrived and rescued him. Police have taken him into custody. The incident highlights the dangers of drunk driving in the area.
Our Take: Drunk Driving Remains a Deadly Menace
This incident is a stark reminder of how one irresponsible decision can destroy lives. A drunk driver, in a matter of minutes, injured four people and left a woman fighting for her life. The fact that the crowd had to take matters into their own hands shows the frustration and fear that such incidents cause in communities. In our view, stricter enforcement of drunk driving laws and immediate suspension of licenses are the minimum steps needed. But more importantly, a cultural shift is required — where driving under the influence is seen not as a minor offense but as a potential act of violence. The authorities must ensure that Pankaj faces the full weight of the law, and that this case serves as a warning to others.
