A British tourist has died after being struck by a car while on holiday in Candolim, Goa, India. The tragic incident occurred on Friday, May 9, 2025, when 86-year-old Harish Solanki and his 81-year-old wife, Chandrakanta, were walking along the main Candolim-Calangute road, shortly after exiting their hotel.

According to reports, a speeding rental car, driven by 48-year-old Vicky Jain, veered to the wrong side of the road and lost control, mounting the pavement and hitting the elderly couple. The impact pinned them against a compound wall. Both Harish and Chandrakanta sustained grievous injuries and were immediately rushed to the Candolim Primary Health Centre. Due to the severity of their condition, they were subsequently transferred to the Goa Medical College (GMC) hospital in Bambolim. Harish Solanki succumbed to his injuries later that evening, while his wife remains in critical condition and is undergoing treatment.

The Calangute police have arrested Vicky Jain, a resident of Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh, and have registered a case against him under various sections of the BNS for rash and negligent driving. The British High Commission has been informed about the accident, and investigations are ongoing. The extensively damaged rental car has also been taken into police custody.

This unfortunate event highlights the potential dangers faced by tourists in India, particularly regarding road safety. According to India's Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, approximately 180,000 people died in road accidents in India in 2024. A significant percentage of these fatalities involve two-wheeler riders not wearing helmets, and a considerable number are young people between the ages of 18 and 34.

The Indian government has acknowledged the severity of the road safety issue and is taking steps to address it. These measures include identifying and rectifying accident-prone "black spots" on national highways, improving road engineering, and promoting public awareness campaigns. Additionally, a new scheme for cashless treatment of road accident victims is being launched to provide immediate medical assistance.

For tourists planning a trip to India, it's essential to prioritize safety and be aware of potential risks. Some safety tips include:

• Being mindful of belongings in crowded places.
• Using taxis and transportation recommended by hotels or tour leaders.
• Settling the price with taxi drivers before starting the journey.
• Avoiding travel alone at night, especially for female travelers.
• Researching local culture and customs to dress and behave appropriately.
• Being vigilant on public transportation.
• Avoiding unfamiliar areas alone.
• Refraining from accepting rides or beverages from strangers.

While India offers a diverse range of experiences and is generally a safe country for travelers, exercising caution and remaining aware of your surroundings can help minimize potential risks.