Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh — August 25, 2025 — A serious incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when a large branch from a dried Peepal tree suddenly collapsed onto an auto-rickshaw near Jethamalpur village in the Syedraja area. The vehicle, occupied by five individuals including two women and the driver, was heavily damaged, and all occupants sustained significant injuries.

The auto-rickshaw, driven by 40-year-old Om Prakash of Rampur, was en route to Syedraja with passengers when the branch fell without warning. Among the injured were Sita, aged 40, from Pahadiya; Shubham Prajapati, 12; an unnamed 10-year-old boy; and Sunaina, 50, from Chakia. Locals rushed to the scene, and emergency services transported all victims to the district hospital. Given the severity of his injuries, Om Prakash was referred to BHU Trauma Centre for further treatment. Sunaina later sought care at a private facility with the help of relatives.

Residents reported that the Peepal tree had been dry and hazardous for at least two years, and repeated warnings to the forest department went unaddressed. Community members have threatened further action if the tree remains standing, citing the danger it poses to public safety.

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.