CANACONA
In a serious traffic mishap at Maxem (Loliem) on NH‑66, a Kerala-registered Toyota Innova allegedly collided with an oncoming electric scooter carrying three riders, leaving all of them grievously injured. The incident occurred when the Innova, driven by Bijo George, a resident of Kottayam, Kerala, reportedly attempted to overtake another vehicle and entered the opposite lane.
The scooter riders — Rajesh Pagi, Divya Pagi, and Dashva Pagi, all residents of Galgibaga, Canacona — were traveling from Polem towards Canacona when the collision took place near God’s Gift Hall, Maxem.
All three fell off the scooter, sustaining serious injuries, including severe leg trauma. They were immediately shifted to SGDH Hospital, Margao for urgent medical care.
According to Canacona Police, the car driver briefly stopped at the scene but then fled along with other occupants, failing to provide medical assistance or inform authorities. The reckless manoeuvre is being treated as endangering human life under relevant traffic laws.
Police have registered a case under sections 281 and 125(b) of the BNS 2023, and sections 134(a) and 134(b) of the Motor Vehicles Act. The investigation is being led by ASI Rohidas Gaonkar of Canacona Police Station. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and gathering witness statements to trace the vehicle and occupants who fled.
This incident highlights the dangers of rash driving and the challenges posed by overloaded two-wheelers, especially in busy stretches like NH‑66. Police have appealed to motorists to adhere to traffic rules and avoid risky overtaking maneuvers to prevent similar accidents.
The injured riders are reported to be in stable condition, while the search for the Innova driver continues. Residents have expressed concern over rising traffic violations in the region and urged stricter enforcement to enhance road safety.
