Former Intel India Head Avtar Saini Killed in Tragic Cycling Accident

In a heart-wrenching incident, former Intel India country head Avtar Saini lost his life after being struck by a speeding cab while cycling in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra. The unfortunate event occurred on Wednesday, February 28, 2023, leaving the tech industry and the nation in mourning.

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The Accident

The accident took place around 5:50 am on Palm Beach Road in Nerul, approximately 20 kilometers from Saini's residence in Mumbai. The 68-year-old tech veteran was enjoying a cycling excursion with fellow cyclists when the speeding cab collided with his bicycle from behind. The driver, in a callous attempt to evade responsibility, tried to flee the scene with Saini's bicycle frame wedged under the front wheels of the cab.

Unsuccessful Rescue Attempt

Saini's cycling companions, witnessing the accident, rushed him to a nearby hospital, hoping to save his life. Tragically, upon arrival at the hospital, Saini was pronounced dead. The news of his untimely demise sent shockwaves throughout the tech community and beyond.

Saini's Legacy

Avtar Saini, a resident of suburban Chembur in Mumbai, was a renowned figure in the technology industry. He played a pivotal role in the development of Intel's groundbreaking microprocessors, including the Intel 386 and 486, and later went on to lead the design of the company's Pentium processor. His contributions to the field of technology were immense and widely recognized.

Legal Action

In response to the tragic incident, the police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the cab driver, Rishikesh Khade, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including rash driving, causing hurt by negligent acts, and causing death by rash or negligent acts. However, as of now, the driver remains at large, and the investigation into the accident is ongoing.

Tributes Pour In

Gokul V Subramaniam, Intel India president, took to social media to express deep sorrow over the loss of Avtar Saini. He acknowledged Saini's significant contributions to Intel, particularly in establishing the company's R&D center in India. Subramaniam highlighted Saini's illustrious career at Intel, spanning over two decades, during which he played a crucial role in the design of several groundbreaking processors. He remembered Saini as a prolific inventor, an outstanding leader, and a valuable asset to the company.

Cycling Safety Concerns

The tragic incident has brought to light the urgent need for dedicated cycling tracks in Navi Mumbai. While the construction of a cycling lane along Palm Beach Road is underway, the lack of such facilities has been lamented by cycling enthusiasts. The absence of safe cycling infrastructure poses significant risks to cyclists, as evident in this unfortunate accident.

Jogging Ban Due to Safety Concerns

In a related development, jogging along Palm Beach Road has been prohibited due to frequent accidents involving joggers. Last year, a tech firm CEO, Rajlaxmi Vijay, lost her life while jogging in south Mumbai's Worli area after being struck by a speeding SUV. These incidents underscore the need for enhanced safety measures to protect joggers and cyclists alike.

The untimely demise of Avtar Saini has left a void in the tech industry and the hearts of those who knew him. His contributions to the field of technology will be remembered for years to come. As the investigation into the accident continues, the focus now shifts to ensuring the safety of cyclists and joggers, preventing such tragic incidents from occurring in the future.