Ex-Intel India Chief Avtar Saini Dies in Navi Mumbai Cycling Accident

Avtar Saini, the former head of Intel India and a key figure in the design of the Pentium processor, tragically passed away on Wednesday morning in Navi Mumbai. The 68-year-old lost his life when a speeding car collided with his bicycle on Palm Beach Road in Nerul around 5:50 am. Mr Saini was cycling with a group of fellow cyclists when a taxi struck the back of his bicycle. In an attempt to flee the scene, the cycle became lodged under the car, dragging Mr Saini for a distance.

Despite wearing a helmet, Mr Saini sustained severe injuries and was promptly taken to a nearby hospital. Unfortunately, doctors declared him brought dead upon arrival.

The driver of the cab was apprehended by fellow cyclists and subsequently turned over to the police. Authorities have registered a case against him, citing charges of rash driving and causing death due to negligence. As of now, the driver has not been arrested, according to the police.

A resident of Chembur, Mr. Saini lived alone after his wife passed away three years ago. His son and daughter reside in the US, and he was scheduled to visit them next month.

Expressing sorrow over Mr Saini's demise, Intel India President Gokul V Subramaniam remarked that the prolific inventor would be fondly remembered as a valuable mentor at Intel.

Intel expresses profound sorrow at the passing of Avtar Saini, former country manager and director of Intel South Asia. Avtar was instrumental in establishing the Intel R&D centre in India, leaving an indelible mark as a prolific inventor, exceptional leader, and invaluable mentor, as mentioned in a LinkedIn post by President Gokul V Subraman.

During his tenure from 1982 to 2004, Mr. Saini served as Vice President at Intel India. He played a pivotal role in the design of various processors, such as the Intel 386, Intel 486, and the widely acclaimed Pentium processor.