13 Year Old Boy Dies On Spot After SMC Garbage Truck Accident In Surat
Surat: In a tragic incident that has sparked outrage over municipal negligence, a 13-year-old boy, Kartikey Nehete, died on the spot late Wednesday night after being hit by a speeding garbage truck belonging to the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC). The accident occurred when the truck allegedly made a sudden and unannounced U-turn, colliding with a moped carrying Kartikey and his two sisters.
Originally from Maharashtra, Kartikey, a class 8 student, lived with his family in Shivnagar, Udhna. That night, he had gone out with his sisters to buy soda near their home. According to eyewitnesses, the SMC garbage van approached at high speed and took a sharp turn without signaling, crashing into their vehicle. While Kartikey died instantly due to severe injuries, both his sisters were also seriously hurt and are currently undergoing treatment at Surat Civil Hospital.
Authorities from the Udhna police station arrived at the scene shortly after the incident. Kartikey’s body was sent for postmortem, and the injured were rushed to the hospital. Police have filed a case against the driver for reckless driving and have launched a formal investigation.
Kartikey was the only son of Anil Nehete, a daily wage laborer. The sudden death of their only child has left the family devastated and plunged in grief. Anil Nehete, speaking to the media, demanded justice and strict punishment for the driver. “My son lost his life because of the driver’s carelessness. We want justice,” he said.
Local residents also expressed anger over the incident, calling for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations and better training for municipal drivers. They urged the authorities to ensure all drivers are licensed and adhere to speed limits, especially in residential areas.
Kalpesh Chaudhary, Kartikey’s relative, stated, “They were going slowly when the SMC truck, coming from the opposite direction, suddenly turned without giving any signal and hit them. Kartikey died on the spot, and women were badly injured.”
Outside the hospital, the grieving family waited in shock as the community rallied around them in support. Surat Mayor Dakshesh Mavani confirmed that an investigation has been ordered. He acknowledged prior issues with municipal vehicle accidents and emphasized that strict measures will be taken against unlicensed or negligent drivers. This heartbreaking incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for accountability and improved safety protocols within municipal operations.