Truck falls 20 feet off ghat in Odisha’s Rayagada; driver and helper critically injured

A goods-laden truck veered off a mountainous road and plunged 20 feet down a gorge at Mukundpur Ghat in Rayagada district’s Kolnara block late Saturday night, leaving the driver and helper grievously injured. 

Sources reported that the mishap took place after the driver of the vehicle lost balance while descending the twisting slopes of Mukundpur Ghat. Eyewitnesses reported that the truck suddenly swerved off the edge, crashing down a rocky slope. The vehicle was reportedly returning to Rayagada from Berhampur.

Locals rushed to the scene and alerted authorities, after which an extensive search and rescue operation was launched.

Rescue Operation Mounted by Fire Services

A fire and rescue team from Kolnara reached the accident site within minutes and launched a difficult operation to rescue the injured. Both the driver and helper were found trapped inside the crushed cabin, surrounded by debris and metal. The rescue team used hydraulic cutters and ropes to reach the victims.

Reports from the ground mentioned that the two were still alive but bleeding heavily and semi-conscious state. They were pulled out after a nearly 30-minute-long operation.

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Victims Shifted to District Hospital in Critical Condition

After preliminary aid at the site, both men were rushed to the Rayagada District Headquarters Hospital, where they remain under critical care, as of the last reports.

Hospital authorities confirmed that both sustained multiple fractures, internal injuries, and head trauma, and their condition remains serious.

No Official Statement Yet, Probe Underway

So far, no official statement has been issued by the district administration or the transport department.
A probe is reportedly underway to determine the exact cause of the accident, though loss of control due to overloading and poor road conditions is being considered a primary factor.

The identity of the driver and helper has not yet been made public. Police are also checking whether the truck was operating with a valid permit and if proper safety measures were in place.

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Notably, Mukundpur Ghat, part of State Highway routes connecting southern Odisha, has seen multiple accidents over the years due to its sharp turns, steep descents, and lack of guardrails.

Local villagers have long demanded better lighting, reinforced barriers, and warning signage, especially as heavy commercial vehicles frequently use the route to cut travel time between Berhampur and Rayagada.