A truck and a bus collided on a highway in India today, leaving at least seven passengers dead.

The tragic crash occurred on Tuesday, February 11, around 9 am on the Nagpur-Prayagraj National Highway near Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.

Reports indicate that a truck transporting cement from Jabalpur to Katni was attempting to overtake another vehicle when it crashed with a tourist bus travelling in the opposite direction.

Footage shows the mangled mini-bus wedged between the truck and the road railings, with crowds of locals gathered around the site of the horrific crash.

Authorities confirmed that seven passengers died at the scene, while several others were left trapped inside the mini-bus.

Another car coming from the opposite direction was also involved in the crash. Airbags protected all passengers in the vehicle.

Seven bodies were recovered by the police, with the possibility of more victims emerging as the investigation continues.

The identities of the deceased have not yet been confirmed as authorities work to establish their details.

A thorough investigation into the incident has been launched.

In another incident, a truck and a bus collided on National Highway 44 in Jadcherla town, Telangana, on Friday night, January 10, resulting in at least three fatalities and 15 injuries.

Reports indicate that the coach, which was allegedly travelling at high speed, first collided with a car, causing minor damage. It then crashed into a stationary truck, leading to the tragic outcome.

India has one of the highest rates of road accidents in the world, with thousands of fatalities and injuries reported each year.

The poor track record is blamed on unsafe road conditions, reckless driving, inadequate enforcement of traffic laws, and a lack of awareness about road safety.