Drunk driver ploughs car into crowded Balakati market in Odisha; 7 motorcycles damaged

Panic gripped Balianta’s Balakati market in the outskirts of Bhubaneswar on Saturday night after a car, allegedly driven by an intoxicated driver, rammed into a crowded marketplace at high speed, damaging at least seven motorcycles and several nearby shops.

The incident took place near the Balakati market auto stand on the Saradeipur–Nimapada road. According to eyewitnesses, a car bearing registration number OD 02 CW 8303 was speeding when it suddenly veered to the right, the driver losing control before crashing into a row of parked motorcycles and shop fronts.

As Saturday is the weekly market day, the area was crowded with shoppers and vendors at the time of the incident. However, no casualties were reported, as people managed to move away moments before the crash.

Local residents and shopkeepers rushed to the spot and detained the driver. In anger over the reckless driving, some locals vandalised the vehicle, leading to a tense situation marked by heated arguments and chaos.

Police were informed and later reached the scene to bring the situation under control and initiate an investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that the driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.

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The incident caused significant financial losses to shop owners and motorcycle owners. Locals have demanded strict action against the driver and stronger enforcement to curb drunk driving, particularly in busy market areas.

The incident has once again raised serious concerns about road safety and irresponsible driving in public places.