Trailer truck catches fire after skidding off ghat on NH-26 in Koraput

Koraput, Odisha: A trailer truck caught fire after slipping off a ghat section of National Highway-26 in Koraput district on Wednesday. However, in a narrow escape, the driver and his helper managed to get out of the vehicle in time and escaped unhurt.

The accident occurred near the Sunkhi Ghat stretch at Jodimadili, a section of NH-26 notorious for its sharp U-turns and steep gradients. According to sources, the trailer lost control while negotiating a sharp curve and skidded down the ghat road. Shortly after the mishap, the vehicle caught fire and was completely gutted.

The trailer slid far below the highway, posing challenges for rescue and firefighting operations. Patangi Fire Services personnel rushed to the spot and worked to bring the blaze under control. Fortunately, both the driver and the helper sustained only minor injuries.

Eyewitnesses said accidents are frequent along this stretch of NH-26 due to its sharp bends and hilly terrain, particularly involving heavy vehicles. Local residents have repeatedly demanded the installation of adequate safety measures, including proper warning signage and speed restrictions, to reduce the risk of accidents.

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Traffic movement on the highway was temporarily disrupted as emergency teams carried out rescue and clearance operations. Police have launched an investigation into the incident, with preliminary findings suggesting overspeeding and loss of control on the ghat curve as possible causes. Authorities have once again urged motorists to exercise caution while navigating this accident-prone stretch of the highway.