Two MLAs Among Six Injured in Delhi Crash After CNG Cylinder Burst
New Delhi, Nov. 20: Two legislators were among six people injured in a road accident at the busy ITO crossing in central Delhi on Sunday night, police said. The injured have been identified as Anil Jha, sitting MLA from Kirari in Delhi, and Abhay Patel, an MLA from Karnataka. They were travelling in an SUV bearing a 'Karnataka Government' board when it was struck by a Swift car that had gone out of control.
The accident occurred at approximately 9:30 pm near the PWD office, according to officials. Police said the Swift driver, Ashutosh Pandey, 32, lost control of the vehicle after its CNG cylinder burst. The car hit a road divider, then crashed through a railing before colliding with the Innova SUV coming from the opposite direction. Pandey was accompanied by his wife and two minor children.
All six occupants sustained minor injuries and were rushed to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital, where they are undergoing treatment. Police confirmed that their condition is stable. The Swift car was completely mangled in the impact, while the front portion of the Innova was also damaged. Visuals from the scene showed all airbags in both vehicles had deployed.
Following the crash, police personnel and passersby rushed to help. A team from the IP Estate Police Station arrived at the spot after receiving information and found the two damaged vehicles. The fire brigade was also called, and both cars were removed from the road. Traffic at the ITO crossing was disrupted for some time, but normal movement was restored later.
The ITO area is one of the busiest intersections in central Delhi, with heavy vehicular movement around the clock. Accidents involving CNG vehicles are a matter of concern, and safety experts have previously emphasised the need for regular inspection of cylinders and adherence to certification standards. However, in this case, the exact cause of the cylinder burst has not yet been established.
Police said a detailed investigation is underway to determine the circumstances leading to the accident. Officials are examining whether the burst was due to a mechanical fault, improper installation, or a lapse in maintenance. They are also verifying the speed of the Swift at the time of the collision. The registered owner of the Swift has been identified, and further proceedings will follow based on the findings.
The incident highlights the importance of proper maintenance and periodic checks for CNG-powered vehicles, which are widely used in Delhi due to their lower emissions. Authorities have urged vehicle owners to ensure that their CNG kits are installed by authorised agencies and certified by the transport department. In the wake of this accident, traffic police may also issue advisories regarding safe driving practices, especially at busy intersections.
Both MLAs have been under observation at the hospital. Meanwhile, the family of the Swift driver remains in a stable condition. The investigation is ongoing, and police will take appropriate legal action once all facts are gathered.
