Passenger bus skids off road in Gajapati; 34 injured, two critical

At least 34 passengers were injured after a bus lost control and skidded off the road near Chandiput under Mohana block in Odisha’s Gajapati district on Saturday. The accident occurred near Chandiput College while the bus was travelling from R. Udayagiri to Berhampur.

According to preliminary reports, the mishap took place when the driver allegedly attempted to overtake another vehicle. During the manoeuvre, the bus reportedly went out of control, veered off the main road and plunged down a roadside embankment. The impact of the crash was severe, shattering window panes and uprooting several seats inside the vehicle. Eyewitnesses said panic gripped passengers as the bus tilted sharply before coming to a halt.

Among the 34 injured passengers, two are stated to be in critical condition. They were immediately shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur for advanced treatment. The remaining injured persons were rescued with the assistance of local residents, along with police and fire services personnel, and admitted to Chandragiri Hospital for medical attention.

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Reports indicate that 22 women are among those injured in the accident. Authorities have initiated a detailed investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the mishap. Officials are examining whether negligence, overspeeding, or unsafe overtaking contributed to the incident.

Further updates are awaited as the probe continues.