A truck full of grapes met a watery fate in Bihar’s Darbhanga district, turning a tragic mishap into an opportunistic free-for-all for local villagers. The viral video from the Singhwada area near Atarbel bridge depicts dozens plunging into the river to salvage the dispersed fruits, creating a spectacle that’s captivated the internet.
The accident unfolded suddenly when the truck failed to negotiate a turn, crashing down into the river and disgorging its load into the swirling waters. Grapes scattered across the surface, drifting downstream and piling up on shores, prompting an immediate influx of residents from adjacent villages.
Entire families joined the effort: mothers balancing babies on hips while netting grapes, children diving playfully, and seniors directing from the edges. Containers of every sort—tins, cloth bags, plastic tubs—were pressed into service as the shoreline buzzed with activity. Some even cleaned and sorted their hauls right there, turning the mishap into a communal event.
Thankfully, no lives were lost; the driver and co-driver emerged with minor scrapes. Authorities intervened to clear the area and prevent mishaps, though significant portions of the grapes were already pocketed. Crane teams later worked to hoist the submerged vehicle.
This episode highlights the razor-thin line between disaster and delight in impoverished regions, fueling viral trends and reflections on infrastructure safety and human instinct.