Coal-laden trailer truck swept away in floodwater in Sundargarh, driver missing

In an unusual incident, a coal-laden trailer truck was swept away by floodwater in Sundargarh on Tuesday.

The incident occurred at the Sahajbahal area under the Bargaon police station in the district.

According to reports, the vehicle overturned in the Jhantalbud canal while attempting to cross a bridge submerged by the overflowing water. The vehicle was trying to pass over the bridge when it was caught in the strong flow and was carried away. 

As per sources, the driver remains missing, and fire service personnel have reached the spot to carry out search operations.

Sources revealed that the concerned bridge was already in a dangerous condition and had been declared unsafe for heavy vehicle movement.

Must Read: Flood situation improves in northern Odisha, Subarnarekha river expected to recede below danger level today

Meanwhile, with many rivers in various parts of Odisha already swollen from previous spells of rain, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted another spell of heavy rainfall as a fresh low-pressure area is likely to form over the Bay of Bengal within the next 48 hours.

According to the weather office, a cyclonic circulation has already developed over the west-central Bay of Bengal and is expected to intensify into a low-pressure system. Under its influence, widespread and heavy rainfall is likely to lash several parts of the state from tomorrow till August 29.