Youth dies after falling into open drain in Puri Badadanda, locals cry admin apathy

A youth reportedly died after falling into an open drain near Market Chhak of Badadanda in Puri on Tuesday.

The identity of the deceased is yet to be ascertained.

It is being suspected that the youth fell into the drain by accident and died.

Meanwhile, Kumbharpada police on being informed reached the spot and initiated an investigation into the incident.

On the other hand, locals have blamed the administration for the death of the youth. They alleged that even after their repeated requests to cover the drain, their pleas went unheard leading to the death.

"For the last five days we have been dialling the local authorities, but they are not responding to our calls. Due to their apathetic attitude, an innocent person lost his life," said an irate local.

When contacted, Executive Officer of Puri Municipality, Saroj Kumar Swain said, “The entire stretch of the drain on both sides of the Grand Road starting from the Lion’s Gate to Balagandi, except for the portion at Market Chhak where the mishap occurred, are covered with slabs. Our probe is on to find out the circumstances under which the portion of the drain was left open. Thereafter, a detailed report would be submitted to the district Collector."