Pvt bus involved in Ganjam mishap was operating without permit, questions raised over issuance of fitness

In a startling revelation, Ganjam RTO on Monday informed that the private bus, which collided head-on with the OSRTC bus near Digapahandi leaving 12 dead, doesn’t have a permit and insurance.

As per Road and Transport Officer Manas Sahu, the private bus returning from Berhampur carrying a marriage party from Khandadeuli village in the district, doesn’t have the requisite permit and insurance to ply during the night. However, the bus had fitness certificate.

“The owner of the bus is fully responsible for the accident as he was plying the bus during the night without the requisite permit and insurance. Stern action will be taken against him,” said Sahu.

Also Read | 11 out of 12 victims of Ganjam bus tragedy were relatives of ex-Berhampur MP

Meanwhile, Ganjam Collector Dibyajyoti Parida said that an investigation into the incident is currently underway and stern action will be taken against the culprits responsible for it.

“So far 12 persons have died in the tragic accident. The injured are currently undergoing treatment at the hospital and their conditions are stable. All kinds of medical facilities have been provided to them. The administration is ready to provide all kinds of assistance to the victims,” said Parida.

“An investigation into the incident is currently underway. Based on the report of the investigation, stern action will be taken against the persons who are responsible for the accident,” he added.

However, questions have been raised over the issuance of a fitness certificate to the 25-year-old bus.