The students were returning home after taking part in a Ganesh idol immersion ceremony. (Image-iStock)
Hyderabad: Two students from Hyderabad lost their lives and five others were injured in a car collision in Essex, UK. The accident occurred at around 4:15 am at the Rayleigh Spur roundabout when two vehicles carrying a group of nine Indian students collided. The students were returning home after taking part in a Ganesh idol immersion ceremony.
Essex police confirmed that both drivers, aged 23 and 24 and part of the group, have been arrested on suspicion of causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving. They are currently in custody.
The deceased were identified as Chaitanya Tarre, 23, from Nadargul, who died at the scene, and Rishiteja Rapu, 21, from Boduppal, who later succumbed to injuries at a hospital. Both had recently moved to the UK to pursue higher studies. Chaitanya had arrived in February to begin his MS programme.
Among the injured, Sai Goutham Ravulla, 30, and Nuthan Thatikayala are in critical condition. Yuva Teja Reddy Gurram, Vamshi Golla, and Venkata Sumanth Pentyala are receiving treatment at the Royal London Hospital. Except for Sai Goutham, all students are between 20 and 23 years old.
Families of the deceased have urged authorities to speed up the repatriation of the bodies. Essex police continue to investigate the cause of the crash.
