Tourist bus carrying pilgrims from West Bengal overturns in Odisha’s Balasore, several injured

In a tragic incident, a bus carrying pilgrims from West Bengal overturned in Odisha's Balasore late on Monday night, injuring several passengers. The incident took place near Radhaballabhpur Chhak under Simulia police limits at around 2 AM, while the pilgrims were returning after visiting the Puri Temple.

Eyewitnesses said the vehicle suddenly swerved off the road and overturned, causing panic among the passengers.

According to sources, 65 passengers were travelling in the bus when it overturned after the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle upon dozing off at the wheel. Most of the pilgrims sustained injuries, with around six people suffering multiple injuries in the mishap.

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Locals and police officials immediately rushed to the spot, and the victims were taken to Simulia and Soro Community Health Centres for treatment. On getting information, police officials rescued the injured and launched a detailed investigation into the accident. However, the driver and the helper remain at large.

Meanwhile, the condition of some passengers is said to be critical, and medical assistance is being provided to all of them. The mishap has sparked concern about driver fatigue during long pilgrim trips, especially at night, as such accidents continue to recur on the state’s highways.