Man dies in fatal road accident in Sundargarh; locals vandalise PCR, block NH-143

Tension gripped Turamura near Bonaigarh in Sundargarh district on Sunday night after a youth was killed in a road accident, leading to chaos and vandalism by irate locals. The deceased, identified as Santosh Nanda of Turamura village, reportedly died after being hit by a trailer truck. Following the accident, police rescued the driver of the trailer from the spot, which angered the villagers.

Enraged over the incident, locals vandalised police vehicles, including a PCR van and even a forest officer’s car passing through the area. The protestors also blocked National Highway-143 late into the night, disrupting vehicular movement along the Rourkela–Bonaigarh route.

Upon receiving information, police teams from Rourkela, Chandiposh, Tikayatpali, Gurundia, Lahunipara, and Mahulpada rushed to the spot to bring the situation under control. The blockade was lifted only after district officials assured compensation and financial assistance to the bereaved family.

"Several people have met with accidents due to the constant movement of heavy vehicles on this route. My younger brother lost his life because of the reckless driving of a truck driver. He has two young children, and I sincerely request the administration to provide necessary support and take strict action to prevent such tragedies in the future,” said Ramesh Nanda, brother of the deceased.

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Bonai Sub Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Ramachandra Biswal said, “We will verify with the concerned authorities whether this route falls under a restricted zone for heavy vehicles or not. The protest was withdrawn after the locals were assured of compensation and necessary assistance.”