Farmer survives 20-ft fall after vehicle plunges off bridge in Ganjam

A vegetable farmer had a miraculous escape after he fell nearly 20 feet along with his vehicle from an old British-era bridge in Ganjam district on Monday. The incident occurred near Palasapur village under Sanakhemundi block.

The injured farmer has been identified as Varun Mohanty. According to sources, he was travelling on a Luna moped to sell vegetables when a truck allegedly hit his vehicle from behind while he was crossing the bridge over the Ghodahada river. The impact caused the farmer and his moped to lose balance and plunge off the bridge.

The riverbed below is strewn with large rocks, making the fall potentially fatal. However, Mohanty survived the accident, escaping with injuries to his hands and legs. Hearing his cries, local residents rushed to the spot and rescued him along with the vehicle from the riverbed.

The injured farmer was immediately shifted for medical treatment. After receiving first aid, he was discharged and returned home. His condition is reported to be stable.

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The incident has once again highlighted safety concerns surrounding the ageing bridge, which locals say is narrow and unsafe, especially for heavy vehicles. Residents have urged the authorities to take immediate measures to improve safety and prevent similar accidents in the future.