Driver killed as iron rod-laden truck plunges into culvert at Kalinga Ghat in Ganjam

A tragic road accident claimed at least one life at Kalinga Ghat in Ganjam district on Friday night after an iron rod–laden truck lost control and plunged into a culvert near Durgaprasad. The mishap occurred on a steep and accident-prone stretch of the ghat road. The mishap triggered panic among locals and passing motorists.

According to preliminary reports, the truck was moving through the winding ghat section when the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle. As a result, the truck veered off the road and fell into a culvert below. The impact of the fall was severe, leaving the vehicle badly damaged and the cabin completely crushed.

The driver was trapped inside the mangled cabin and died on the spot after sustaining injuries in the accident. Police officials said there is a strong possibility that the helper, who was also travelling in the truck, has also died after being buried under the debris. However, confirmation of the helper’s death will be made after the rescue operation is completed.

On being informed, police, along with fire service and rescue personnel, rushed to the accident site and launched an extensive rescue operation. Heavy equipment was pressed into service to cut open the damaged truck and retrieve those trapped inside. The operation continued for several hours due to the difficult terrain and the extent of damage.

Also Read: Three killed, two critically injured in horrific road mishap in Keonjhar

The accident led to a temporary traffic disruption in the Kalinga Ghat area, with vehicles moving slowly along the route. Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.