Woman teacher dead, over 30 hurt as bus overturns in Rayagada

A woman died while more than 30 others were injured after the bus they were travelling in overturned near Hatikhamba under Chandili police limits in Rayagada district late last night.

The mishap occurred when the bus with 40 passengers was en route to Umerkote in Nabarangpur district from Paralakhemundi. The deceased has been identified as Sunita Satpathy, a teacher by profession.

“We have no clue how the accident happened. But we are guessing that when the bus was passing through a ghat, the driver lost his control over the vehicle and it overturned. All the passengers were helpless during the unfortunate accident. Many among us got injured and a female passenger died in the process,” said Bijaylaxmi Panigrahi, one of the injured passengers.

At least 14 among the injured are stated to be critical. They have been admitted to Rayagada district headquarters hospital.

“The severe accident occurred near Hatikhamba. One of our relatives has been severely injured and along with others he has been admitted to the hospital. We pray for their speedy recovery,” said relative of one of the injured.

As per hospital sources, all the injured admitted in the hospital are responding well to the treatment and their conditions are stable now.

“There is nothing to worry for the injured persons and their relatives. Barring one injured, all others are recuperating fast. They are under treatment and strict observation. They will recover soon,” said Doctor Abhijit Pradhan.