Five persons died and scores were reportedly injured after the bus they were travelling in skidded off a flyover on NH-16 near Barabati in Jajpur on Monday.
The death figure was confirmed by Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) of Jajpur Debasish Moharana. Two passengers died on the spot while three others succumbed at the hospital, the CDMO added.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed grief over the incident and announced ex gratia of Rs 3L each for the kin of the deceased.
The bus was carrying over 40 passengers and was on its way from Puri to Haldia. Following the mishap, Fire Services personnel and locals launched rescue operations. The injured were initially sent to Dharmasala CHC.
As per reports, the condition of the five injured is stated to be critical. All the injured were sent to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. As many as 16 ambulances and five cranes were pressed into the rescue operation. The Jajpur SP and the Collector reached the site to take stock of the situation.
An eyewitness said, "Two persons died on the spot and many passengers were injured. After they were rescued, they were sent to a nearby hospital. Local people had rescued the injured before police arrived.”
Collector Nikhil Pawan Kalyan said, "A total of 43 passengers were in the bus. The injured were shifted in 16 ambulances to the hospitals.”
Transport Commissioner Amitav Thakur, who visited the SCB medical in Cuttack to take stock of the situation, said, "We have information that 40 injured were shifted from Dharmasala. Treatment is in progress. The state government will bear all the costs of treatment. All possible care is being ensured for the injured.”
Though the reason behind the accident was not known immediately, it was suspected that the driver was driving carelessly.
Condolences pour in
Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik took to his X handle to express his condolences and said "I am saddened to know about the passenger bus accident in Barabati area of Jajpur district. I express my condolences to the families of the deceased. I wish all the injured a speedy recovery."
BJP National Vice President, Baijayant Panda expressed his grief over the incident. Taking to his X handle, Baijayant Panda posted, "I am deeply saddened to hear the news of a fatal bus accident near Kuakhia Barbati in Jajpur district. Expressing my deepest condolences to the bereaved family and praying to Lord Jagannath for the speedy recovery of the injured."