A three-year-old girl named Rithuvenda was killed after being run over by a vehicle at Kumbalichal Bridge in Kattakkada, Thiruvananthapuram, on July 5, 2026. According to local reports, the vehicle rolled into a group of tourists dancing on the bridge. Police believe the driver steered into a divider to avoid falling into the reservoir below.
How did the accident occur?
The incident occurred around 6:00 PM while a tourist group was gathered on the bridge. While people were dancing to music from a van, the vehicle rolled toward the crowd, according to reports. Although most adults managed to move out of the way, the front wheel of the vehicle ran over Rithuvenda.
Witnesses reportedly attempted to pull the child away, resulting in serious head injuries. The child was first taken to a clinic in Poochumukku before being moved to a private hospital in Kattakkada, where she was pronounced dead. The child’s mother, Nish, is currently receiving treatment at a Kattakkada hospital after losing consciousness.
What are the safety concerns at Kumbalichal Bridge?
The accident has highlighted significant infrastructure and security issues at the location. Local residents report that the bridge lacks adequate parking facilities to accommodate the large numbers of tourists who visit during holidays.
Lighting is another primary concern. The bridge currently relies on solar lights that provide dim illumination, leaving the areas on both sides of the bridge in significant darkness at night. While the Amboori Panchayat has appointed a security guard, locals claim the individual is overburdened with responsibilities, including managing vehicle parking.
What are the community demands for the area?
Following the tragedy, local residents have called for immediate safety improvements. These demands include the installation of electric lighting on both sides of the bridge and the appointment of additional security personnel.
The implementation of these requested safety measures could potentially reduce the risk of future accidents at the site. Police investigations into the circumstances of the vehicle’s movement are ongoing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the victim of the accident?
The victim was a three-year-old girl named Rithuvenda.
Where did the accident take place?
The accident occurred at Kumbalichal Bridge in Kattakkada, Thiruvananthapuram.
What safety issues have been identified at the bridge?
Identified issues include a lack of safe parking, dim solar lighting, and an overburdened security guard.
Should authorities prioritize infrastructure upgrades in high-traffic tourist zones?