📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Dev Jadiya
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Traffic Guard Pankaj Yadav Honored in Indore for Stopping Burning Truck, Saving Hundreds
✍️ Amar Ujala · Indore
🗓 23 Sep 2026, 04:01 PM
👁 9
Pankaj Yadav, a traffic guard in Indore, received the Vighnaharta Award 2026 after he halted a runaway, burning truck, averting a potential disaster.
Indore's Palasia Traffic Office witnessed a solemn ceremony on Tuesday when senior official Krishna Guruji draped a tricolour scarf over traffic guard Pankaj Yadav and presented him with the Vighnaharta Award 2026. The award recognised Yadav's quick action in stopping a runaway truck that had caught fire, an incident that could have endangered hundreds of commuters and nearby residents.
According to officials, the truck burst into flames while navigating a busy stretch of the city. Yadav, on duty at the scene, used his authority and physical effort to bring the vehicle to a halt before it could collide with a crowded market area. His intervention prevented the fire from spreading and saved numerous lives.
The Vighnaharta Award, instituted by the state traffic department, honours individuals who display exceptional courage and dedication in safeguarding public safety. During the ceremony, Krishna Guruji highlighted Yadav's sense of duty and urged other traffic personnel to emulate his example.
Local authorities also announced plans to publicise Yadav's act as a model for emergency response training across Madhya Pradesh, hoping to inspire similar vigilance among frontline workers.
According to officials, the truck burst into flames while navigating a busy stretch of the city. Yadav, on duty at the scene, used his authority and physical effort to bring the vehicle to a halt before it could collide with a crowded market area. His intervention prevented the fire from spreading and saved numerous lives.
The Vighnaharta Award, instituted by the state traffic department, honours individuals who display exceptional courage and dedication in safeguarding public safety. During the ceremony, Krishna Guruji highlighted Yadav's sense of duty and urged other traffic personnel to emulate his example.
Local authorities also announced plans to publicise Yadav's act as a model for emergency response training across Madhya Pradesh, hoping to inspire similar vigilance among frontline workers.