3 friends die as gas tanker rams into bike in Bhawanipatna

Three youths were killed along National Highway-26 near Pastikudi under Bhawanipatna in Kalahandi district when a speeding gas tanker collided with their motorcycle on Sunday evening.

The deceased are from nearby Rakabahali village. 

As per reports, the three friends were returning home on a motorcycle after playing a cricket match at nearby Utkela when the truck crushed their vehicle.

Tension prevailed in the area following the tragic incident. Locals staged a road blockade demanding adequate compensation to the families of the deceased. They also demanded stringent action against the truck driver.

Hundreds of vehicles have been stranded on both sides of the road due to the blockade. Bhawanipatna police have reached the spot and trying to pacify the people.

While the vehicle has been seized by the police, the driver is reportedly on the run. An investigation into the accident has been launched.