1 killed as truck rams into tourist bus

Soro: A 70-year-old man died and two others were critically injured after the tourist bus they were travelling in was hit by a truck on NH 5 near Maitapur Mahantipokhari under Semulia police limits in Balasore district late on Friday night. The deceased was identified as LN Naidu.

According to reports, the truck rammed into the tourist bus carrying 27 pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh that was stationed near Maitapur Chhak following a breakdown in the wee hours today. The tourist bus was scheduled to leave for Vizianagarm via Puri. The passengers were part of a religious excursion trip from Kashi and Howrah.

Following the mishap, the two injured persons have been shifted to hospital for preliminary treatment.

The truck driver and helper fled after the incident leaving the vehicle on the spot. Meanwhile, police have started investigation into the incident.