10 People Electrocuted To Death Inside Pick-Up Van Due To Faulty Wiring

As many as 10 people in India have been electrocuted to death inside a pick-up van allegedly due to faulty wiring in its generator.

The incident occurred late Sunday in the city of Cooch Behar in the eastern state of West Bengal. The vehicle was en route to Jalpesh, a temple located in the town of Jalpaiguri, located 80 kilometers north of Cooch Behar, NDTV reported.

All 27 passengers were rushed to a nearby hospital following the incident. Ten of them were declared brought dead at the hospital, while 16 others were referred to another hospital for minor injuries. The condition of one passenger is critical, according to Times Now News.

Police believe the incident may have been the result of faulty wiring in the generator of the vehicle's DJ system.

"Today at around 12 am, an incident took place at Dharla Bridge under Mekhliganj PS where one pick-up van carrying passengers on its way to Jalpesh got electrocuted. The preliminary inquiry reveals that it might be due to wiring of the generator (DJ system) which was fitted in the back of the vehicle," Amit Varma, assistant superintendent of police, told reporters.

"They were brought to Changrabandha BPHC. The attending Medical Officer referred 16 out of 27 persons to Jalpaiguri District hospital for better treatment. They are having minor injuries but require a thorough check-up. 10 people have been declared dead by the attending Medical Officer," the police officer said, adding that the families of the passengers were informed of the tragic incident.

The driver of the vehicle reportedly fled the scene after the incident. A search is on to find him. Police have seized the vehicle.

"The vehicle has been seized but the driver has escaped. Senior officers are present at the spot. Police are coordinating for relief and any assistance required," Varma said.