Kalaburagi: In a tragic incident that has shocked Karnataka’s administrative circles, IAS officer Mahantesh Bilagi died in a horrific road accident on the Jevargi bypass on the Kalaburagi–Vijayapura National Highway on Monday. His brother and the car’s driver also lost their lives in the crash.
Preliminary reports suggest that the vehicle was being driven at extremely high speed — nearly 180 kmph, according to police sources. The impact was so severe that the vehicle was completely mangled.
Sequence of Events
Bilagi, who was serving as the Managing Director of the Karnataka Mining Department, was travelling from Bagalkote to Kalaburagi along with four others to attend a private event. Around midday, their car reportedly lost control and crashed at high speed on the Jevargi bypass stretch.
Locals and police rushed to the spot and immediately shifted the injured to a private hospital in Kalaburagi. Despite emergency treatment, IAS officer Mahantesh Bilagi succumbed to his injuries. His brother and the driver were declared dead on arrival.
Two other occupants of the car have sustained severe injuries and are undergoing treatment.
Police Suspect Overspeeding
A senior investigating official told reporters:
“Preliminary assessment shows the vehicle was travelling at nearly 180 kmph. Overspeeding appears to be the primary cause, but a detailed probe is underway.”
The case has been registered under the Jevargi Police Station limits, and a forensic examination of the vehicle is being carried out to ascertain mechanical failure, if any.
A Dedicated Officer Lost
Mahantesh Bilagi, known as a sincere, hardworking officer, hailed from a humble background. Colleagues remember him as a principled administrator who rose through immense dedication and hard work.
He had served in various key positions, including as a District Commissioner (Collector), and Bescom MD earned respect for his commitment to public service.
His sudden demise has left the bureaucracy and political leadership deeply shocked.
Further Investigation Underway
Police are verifying:
- Whether the driver lost control due to overspeeding
- If any other vehicle was involved
- Road conditions at the accident site
- Statements from surviving passengers
A detailed accident reconstruction report is expected soon.
ಇದನ್ನೂ ಓದಿ: IAS ಅಧಿಕಾರಿಯ ಅರಳಿದ ಬದುಕಿಗೆ ಟ್ರ್ಯಾಜಿಡಿ: ಮಹಾಂತೇಶ್ ಬಿಳಿಗಿ ಕಾರು ಅಪಘಾತದಲ್ಲಿ ಮೃತ್ಯು — ಚಾಲಕ, ಸಹೋದರರಿಗೂ ಅಂತ್ಯ
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