At least three persons were killed in a tragic road mishap on NH-57, Bolangir-Sonepur road, near Randa chhak in the wee hours today.
As per reports, eight youths from nearby villages under Sadar block had gone Khandadhar in Sonepur district for a picnic on Sunday.
The mishap occurred when an unidentified vehicle reportedly hit the SUV in which all the youths were returning to Bolangir on Wednesday.
"A speeding truck hit our vehicle. The driver of our vehicle could not spot the truck coming as its lights were not working. Some construction work was going on and barricades were also put up near the spot," said Dibya Ranjan Behera, an injured.
Golab Bag. Sadar block chairman said, "It is an unfortunate incident. We got information about the accident in the morning. So far, three youths have died in the incident. The deceased have been identified as Abhisekh Bhoi, Ghanshyam Hati and Bhaban."
Bag further said that the local administration should announce assistance for the family members of the deceased. Steps should also be taken to identify the vehicle which caused the accident.
Following the mishap, three of them died on the spot while five others sustained critical injuries in the accident. Four of the injured have been admitted to Bhima Bhoi hospital while one other has been shifted to Burla in critical condition.
In another incident, a biker was killed in a freak road mishap at Belbahali chak on Bolangir-Sonepur road. Puintala police has started investigation into the incident.