1 killed, 16 injured after auto-rickshaw falls off culvert in Odisha

A passenger was killed while 16 others were rendered critical after an auto-rickshaw ferrying them fell off a culvert in Odisha’s Koraput district. The deceased has been identified as Dasi Muduli. All the injured have been rescued and were admitted to Dasmanthpur Community Health Centre (CHC).

The condition of five of the injured was stated to be critical. After preliminary treatment, they were shifted to Saheed Laxman Nayak Medical College and Hospital, Koraput for better treatment, reports said.

The deceased and the injured passengers hailed from Baragachha village under Pindapodar panchayat of Dasmanthpur block. Sources said the incident occurred while the villagers were returning home after watching a dance festival organised on the occasion of Dola Purnima. The auto driver lost balance over the wheels of the vehicle, leading to the mishap.

On being informed, police reached the spot and launched a probe into the incident. The driver of the auto has also suffered injuries on his eyes and head, police said.

While no exact reason for the mishap was ascertained immediately, preliminary sources said the vehicle was overloaded.
Police are also investigating if the driver fell asleep or was drunk. Action would be taken as per the investigation, police said.