In a tragic incident, at least six people died and 12 others were seriously injured after a truck of a Jatra troupe overturned at Bangiriposi Ghati on National Highway 49 in Mayurbhanj district on Wednesday.
As per initial reports, the truck belongs to Dhauli Gananatya. The truck was carrying lights and other instrument worth around lakhs of rupees.
The mishap took place when the driver of the truck was taking a turn and lost the control of steering wheel.
Soon after the mishap, the onlookers rushed to the spot and initiated a rescue operation.
On being informed, the police reached the spot and rushed the victims to Bangiriposi Hospital.
According to reports, nine victims are being treated at Baripada medical, and two others are undergoing treatment at Bangiriposi hospital.
“I rushed to the hospital immediately after receiving the news. The truck overturned while the driver was taking a turn,” said a Jatra artiste.
Additional SP Umashankar Maharana said, "The victims are being treated in hospitals. Two are likely to be discharged soon. We have informed the relatives of the victims and we are expecting to receive them early. A probe is on to trace the driver. Besides, action will be taken against the driver if required."
The Odisha government has announced a compensation of Rs 3 lakh to the kin of each deceased.