17 killed in Tamil Nadu truck mishap

The driver lost control of the vehicle while negotiating a turn in Kathripallam village late on Sunday night.

At least 17 people were killed and 57 injured overnight when a truck veered off the road in Tamil Nadu, a report said on Monday.

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The accident took place late on Sunday in Kathripallam village as the driver lost control of the vehicle while negotiating a sharp curve, Deputy Inspector General of Police Alexander Mohan said.

The truck had 80 people on board at the time of the accident, Mohan said.

Rescue operations were delayed as the accident took place in a remote area, he said.

So far 17 bodies - including that of two women - had been retrieved, Mohan said. He added that the toll was likely to rise as many of the injured were critical.

Road accidents are frequent in India and are often blamed on overcrowding, reckless driving and poorly-maintained vehicles.