Tragic Truck Crash Claims Five Lives in Berhampur
A devastating road accident in Berhampur resulted in the deaths of five individuals and left three others injured after a speeding truck collided with three motorcycles on a railway overbridge near Haladiapadar on Saturday. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and raised serious concerns about road safety in the area.
Details of the Fatal Collision
According to sources, the truck was traveling on the wrong side of the road when it crashed into the motorcycles, running over the bikers with immense force. The impact was so severe that the helmet of one victim was completely smashed under the truck's wheels. Four individuals were crushed under the vehicle, while another succumbed to injuries while being transported to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur.
Identification of the Deceased
The deceased have been identified as Surya Narayan Panda, 41, from Ayodhya Nagar; Sibaram Jena, 35, from Gunthubandh; Jaga Nahak, 20; Rakesh Nahak, 22, both from Phulta; and Satya Narayan Bej from Khariaguda near Jarada. Their tragic deaths have left families and the community in mourning.
Emergency Response and Traffic Disruption
Police and fire personnel rushed to the scene immediately after receiving information. They recovered the bodies, rescued the injured, and shifted them to the hospital for urgent medical attention. The accident caused significant disruption, halting vehicular traffic on NH-16 for several hours. Authorities cleared the traffic only after removing the truck from the overbridge.
Police Investigation and Driver Detention
Berhampur Superintendent of Police Saravana Vivek M confirmed that the truck was seized and its driver detained for questioning. "The exact cause of the mishap will be known only after interrogation of the driver," he stated. A post-mortem examination was conducted, and the bodies were subsequently handed over to the families of the deceased.
Government Response and Compensation
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh each from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund (CMRF). He also directed officials to ensure better treatment for the injured victims. In a separate statement, Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena ordered an inquiry into the cause of the accident, expressing grief over the incident and offering condolences to the affected families.
This tragic event underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of traffic rules and enhanced road safety measures to prevent such accidents in the future.
