TV
At least 10 workers injured in a road accident near Chapadapanka village under Mohana block in Odisha's Gajapati district on Monday. The incident happened when the pickup van carrying the migrant labourers overturned after the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle. Out of the 10 injured, four have reportedly sustained serious injuries.
According to reports, the pickup van was on its way from Mohana to Adaba when it lost balance and overturned on the left side of the road. All the occupants were labourers employed under a private contractor and were reportedly working with the Electricity Department in Mohana and Chandragiri areas.
Eyewitnesses said the driver appeared to have lost control due to a sharp turn, causing the van to skid and flip. The accident triggered panic in the area, prompting local residents to rush to the spot. The injured were rescued by the villagers and immediately transported to Mohana Medical Centre in a 108 ambulance.
Given the severity of their injuries, four of the workers were later shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur for advanced treatment. The condition of the remaining labourers is said to be stable.
All the victims hail from the Mayurbhanj district and were working under contractual arrangements. They were reportedly being transported for daily work assignments when the mishap occurred.
Police have launched an investigation into the accident. Preliminary findings suggest that overloading and rash driving may have contributed to the loss of control. Authorities are also verifying whether safety protocols for transporting labourers were followed.
The incident has once again raised concerns over the safety and transport arrangements for migrant workers engaged in infrastructure and utility services across the state. The administration has assured necessary medical care to the injured and has initiated steps to ensure accountability in the matter.
