HRD ministry clartifies on Yamuna Expressway accident

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The HRD ministry on Monday rubbished media reports on the involvement of a vehicle from union minister Smriti Irani's cavalcade in an accident on the Yamuna Expressway, stating that 'the vehicle had nothing to do with the cavalcade'.

"In sections of the media, a news story is being run regarding the accident on the Yamuna Expressway late March 5 night, which mentioned that a vehicle (Honda City) with registration number DL-3C-BA-5315 allegedly hit a biker. It is clarified that this vehicle has nothing to do with minister's cavalcade," read a ministry clarification.

"...union Human Resource Minister Smriti Zubin Irani had directed the SSP of Mathura to arrange an ambulance immediately so that the injured could be given medical treatment at the earliest," the statement added.

Irani escaped with minor injuries after a vehicle, allegedly part of her cavalcade, hit a motorcycle, killing Dr Ramesh Nagar and injuring his daughter Sandali and nephew Pankaj on Saturday night.

After the incident, in a series of tweets, Irani said: "For all enquiring re my accident - I'm fine. Thank you for the concern and wishes."

"There was a pile up of vehicles due to an accident on the Expressway. Unfortunately the police vehicle before mine & my car also crashed."

"Tried to help the injured who were lying on the road for quite sometime and ensured they reach a hospital. Pray for their safety," she said in another tweet.

"Good Samaritan Manoj Chopra and his wife also helped injured citizens. God bless them for their empathy and kindness," she added.