‘Killer flyover’ in Odisha under ire after accident claims 5 lives; Minister promises corrective measures

Serious questions have been raised over the structural safety of Haladiapadar flyover in Berhampur City of Ganjam district following the tragic death of five people in a truck collision. The tragedy has reignited debate over alleged design flaws and controversial changes made during the construction of the allegedly ‘killer flyover’.

Also Read: Five killed as truck rams into three bikes in Odisha's Berhampur

Reports have surfaced alleging that the original design of the flyover was altered to pass through the land of influential politicians, builders, and powerful individuals, instead of government-owned land.

Critics claim these changes led to sharp curves, narrow carriageways, and absence of proper approach roads—turning the bridge into what locals now call a “death trap”.

Built in 2013 to avoid accidents at a railway level crossing, the flyover connects National Highway-16 with Berhampur City. However, since its inauguration, more than 20 lives have reportedly been lost in accidents on the stretch. Recent visuals and GPS mapping point to dangerous U and V-shaped turns that invite mishaps, especially for heavy vehicles.

Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena has acknowledged serious structural defects. He has called them “unforgivable”, and assured that corrective design measures will be taken.

Besides, an FIR has been lodged by a local outfit against former officials, and demands are growing to demolish and rebuild the bridge entirely to prevent further loss of life.

“Preparing a design at one’s sweet will and by misusing power, thereby putting the public into trouble and arousing public resentment, is an unforgivable offence. It is necessary to correct the faults. We will take steps to change the design of the overbridge and mend the existing faults properly,” the Transport Minister said.

Worth mentioning, the major road mishap had occurred at Haladiapadar Square in Odisha's Berhampur on January 31, leaving five people dead after a truck collided with motorcycles on the National Highway.

The truck was travelling on wrong side of the NH when it hit multiple two-wheelers. The heavy vehicle reportedly rammed into three motorcycles and ran over five persons, crushing them. The five were killed on the spot in the collision.