One dead, several sustain critical injuries as pickup van overturns in Odisha's Bonai

A woman was killed, and at least 15 others were critically injured after a pickup van overturned in Kelo under the Bonai Range on Monday. The victims, mostly labourers, were returning from a tree plantation programme organised by the Forest Department 

Cause of Mishap Unclear

Reports say the exact cause of the accident is still unclear. While some sources point to possible brake failure, others suggest the driver may have been distracted. The pickup, carrying nearly 30 passengers, including women and children, overturned on its way back from the plantation site.

Children Among the Injured

Many of the women labourers had taken their young children along to the event. Several of the children were also injured in the mishap, with witnesses noting that the overcrowding of the van worsened the impact when it overturned.

Victims Rushed to Hospitals

The injured were immediately taken to nearby hospitals. More than 15 critically injured persons were admitted to Bonai and Rourkela hospitals, with nearly 10 shifted to Rourkela for advanced treatment. 

Authorities said further transfers would be made depending on the condition of the victims.