Bus carrying 50 passengers overturns on NH-16 near Bhubaneswar: 7 injured, steering failure suspected

A private passenger bus overturned on National Highway-16 near Pitapalli in Khordha district, about 25 kilometres from Bhubaneswar, on Saturday afternoon, leaving at least seven passengers injured.

Sources reported that the accident occurred around 2:15 pm on the Khordha-Berhampur stretch of the highway. Preliminary reports suggest the bus may have suffered a steering failure while en route from Bhubaneswar to Aska.

Eyewitnesses said the vehicle began veering uncontrollably to the left before crashing into a highway barrier and flipping over. The bus had approximately 50 passengers on board at the time. The impact left the front portion of the vehicle completely mangled, with one axle visibly broken.

“We were right behind the bus when it appeared to lose control and start drifting towards the left. It then hit a wall and overturned with its front portion getting completely mangled,” said an eyewitness.

In the immediate aftermath of the crash, locals rushed to the spot and began pulling passengers out through broken windows and the windshield.

Several passengers were stuck inside and were rescued with help from bystanders. Emergency services soon reached the scene, and the injured, estimated between five and seven, were transported to Khordha District Hospital. Their health condition is yet to be ascertained.

The overturned bus led to a temporary blockade of the busy national highway. Authorities deployed cranes to remove the mangled vehicle and clear debris from the road.

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Police Launch Investigation, Driver Missing

Meanwhile, police have launched an inquiry into the cause of the accident, focusing on whether the bus was speeding, its mechanical health, and whether it possessed a valid fitness certificate.

The driver was reportedly not present at the scene when police arrived, raising suspicions. CCTV footage from the nearest toll gate is being reviewed to trace the vehicle’s movements before the crash.

No additional comments could be obtained from the police.