In a devastating incident that unfolded at the Rajaji Tiger Reserve, four forest personnel, including two Range Officers and a mahavat, lost their lives during a trial run of an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV). The incident occurred on Chilla Canal Road when one of the ATV’s tires burst, leading to a catastrophic outcome.
The ill-fated trial run claimed the lives of two Range Officers and a mahavat, leaving the forest department in shock and mourning. The personnel were engaged in testing the capabilities of the ATV when the unexpected tire failure occurred, resulting in a tragic accident.
Adding to the heart-wrenching situation, a senior lady officer identified as the Assistant Conservator of Forests, was swept away in the nearby canal during the chaos. Rescue operations are underway, but as of now, she remains missing, intensifying the grief and concern among her colleagues.
The entire forest community is reeling from the loss of dedicated and experienced personnel who were committed to the conservation and protection of the Rajaji Tiger Reserve. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with field trials and the importance of stringent safety measures.
Authorities are launching investigations into the circumstances leading to the ATV accident, aiming to ascertain the exact cause of the tire burst and evaluate the safety protocols in place during such trials. The forest department, along with local authorities, is extending support to the families of the deceased and intensifying efforts to locate the missing senior officer.
In a very sad and tragic incident, four forest personnel of #RajajiTigerReserve including two Range Officer and a mahavat died when one of the tyres burst on Chilla Canal Road during a trial run of an All Terrain Vehicle.
— Surender Mehra IFS (@surenmehra) January 8, 2024
A Senior Lady Officer (Asst Conservator of Forests) was… pic.twitter.com/EmqPRaxFVC