Container truck plunges into Harabhangi Dam in Odisha's Gajapati, close shave for driver

A major mishap was reported in Odisha's Gajapati district after a container lorry plunged into the Harabhangi Dam on Thursday. The incident prompted a search operation by the fire services. 

The incident took place near Kristapur village under Adaba police station limits, when the vehicle lost balance and veered off the road into the waterbody. The driver, who was travelling alone, narrowly escaped by jumping out of the vehicle in time.

According to reports, the container was en route from Rayagada to Cuttack when it lost control near Kristapur. The vehicle slipped downwards and fell into the dam. Fortunately, the container was empty at the time of the accident, preventing further risks.

Police and Fire Services at Spot

On receiving information, personnel from Mohana fire services and Adaba police rushed to the spot and launched search operation. The high water levels in the dam, attributed to recent incessant rainfall, have posed challenges for the recovery operation. Fire services teams are continuing efforts to trace the sunken container, sources said.

Cause Under Probe

Preliminary accounts suggest that the vehicle may have lost balance while negotiating a turning near the dam. Adaba police are currently questioning the driver regarding the circumstances leading to the mishap and have begun an investigation into the case, sources added. 

Officials confirmed that the driver’s quick reaction saved his life, though the container remains trapped under water.