A tragic accident occurred in Chhattisgarh's Kawardha area on Monday, where a pickup truck carrying 25-30 people from the Baiga tribal community overturned, resulting in the death of at least 18 individuals.
The group was returning from collecting traditional Tendu leaves when the vehicle fell into a 20-foot-deep ditch near the Bahpani area. The injured were promptly taken to the nearby district hospital for treatment. All the victims are reported to be residents of Kui.
The Baiga community is traditionally involved in the bidi-making business, for which they collect Tendu leaves. These leaves, which emerge in March, are harvested in May and are essential for rolling bidis.
