Diwali Darkness: A Family's Joyous Outing Shattered by Tragedy at Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Mumbai, the city that never sleeps, often sees its residents seeking solace and recreation in its green lung, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). But what was meant to be a joyous Diwali outing for one family turned into an unimaginable nightmare this year, as a two-year-old boy, Rehan Khan, lost his life in a tragic accident involving a Forest Department vehicle within the park premises.

The vibrant festival of lights, a time for family, celebration, and new beginnings, was cruelly transformed into a day of profound grief for the Khan family.

Hailing from Govandi, they had embarked on a picnic to SGNP on November 12, eager to soak in the festive atmosphere and create cherished memories. Young Rehan, just two years old, was the sparkle in their eyes, the 'light' of their home, as his devastated mother, Rubina Khan, would later recount. His innocent laughter and playful energy filled their world, making the prospect of Diwali even brighter.

The family was enjoying their time near the 'Gandhi Tekdi' area, a popular spot within the sprawling park.

In a moment that will forever haunt them, a Bolero camper pickup, allegedly driven by Prakash Khade, a contractual staffer of the Forest Department, struck Rehan. The family alleges the vehicle was speeding. The accident was sudden, brutal, and utterly preventable. The joyous day instantly dissolved into chaos, screams, and frantic efforts to save the little one.

Rehan was immediately rushed to Thunga Hospital, but the injuries were too severe.

He was declared dead upon arrival, plunging his parents, Rubina and Firoz Khan, a daily-wage labourer, into an abyss of sorrow that no words can adequately describe. Their Diwali celebrations, their hopes, their future with their beloved son, were extinguished in a single, horrific moment.

The tragic incident has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stricter safety measures within the national park.

Prakash Khade, the driver, was swiftly apprehended by the Kasturba Marg police. He now faces charges under Sections 279 (rash driving) and 304A (causing death by negligence) of the Indian Penal Code. While legal proceedings offer a path to accountability, they can do little to mend the broken hearts of Rehan's family.

This isn't an isolated incident either.

The Indian Express reported on a similar tragedy in 2021, where a 46-year-old man was killed by a speeding forest department vehicle inside the park. Such recurring incidents underscore a critical flaw in the park's operational safety protocols, especially concerning internal vehicle movements in areas frequented by visitors.

The Khan family, still reeling from their immense loss, is now seeking justice for their little boy.

"My child was the light of our home. We want strict action to be taken against the driver," pleaded Rubina Khan, her voice heavy with grief. Their demand resonates with many Mumbaikars who frequent SGNP – the park, meant to be a sanctuary, must prioritize the safety of its visitors above all else.

Stricter speed limits, enhanced driver training, and more vigilant enforcement are not just suggestions; they are urgent necessities to prevent another Diwali from turning into a day of darkness for another family.