Pune: Woman Dragged 300 Feet by Tempo in Bhukum, Helmet Saves Her Life
Pune: Woman Dragged 300 Feet by Tempo in Bhukum, Helmet Saves Her Life
Pune – A woman narrowly escaped death in a horrific road accident in Bhukum (Mulshi taluka) on Friday evening, thanks to her helmet and quick-thinking by local residents.
The accident took place near the Shell petrol pump on Bhukum Road after an oil spill led to multiple two-wheeler riders losing control of their vehicles. Among the five injured was Vrushali Ram Gaikwad, a resident of Shindewadi, who was returning home from work around 7 PM.
As Vrushali’s scooter skidded on the slippery stretch, she fell onto the road. Just as she was attempting to stand, a tempo traveling from Pune to Pirangut ran over her. The rear wheel caught her helmet, dragging her approximately 300 feet before stunned bystanders flagged down the vehicle.
Helmet Shields Her from Fatal Injury
Eyewitnesses and police confirmed that Vrushali’s helmet took the full brunt of the impact, protecting her from what could have been a deadly head injury. Although the helmet was crushed, it saved her life. She suffered only minor injuries and was immediately taken to a private hospital by locals.
Remarkably, Vrushali remained calm during the ordeal. Trapped under the vehicle, she warned those nearby not to move it, fearing any shift might crush her head. Locals then carefully lifted the tempo to free her.
The tempo driver, Mayur Rajesh Khandare, a resident of Bhukum, was arrested by Bavdhan Police after a complaint was filed by Nitin Jaysing Gaikwad. Police Inspector Anil Vibhute and Naik P.B. Kale are investigating the incident.
Shortly after being rescued, Vrushali called her father to assure him of her safety. “Don’t worry, I’m fine,” she said. Speaking later, she reflected on the incident with emotion: “If I hadn’t worn the helmet, I wouldn’t be alive today.”
