Tragic Accident in Sundargarh: Truck Plunges into Shankh River, Claims Driver's Life
A devastating road accident in Odisha's Sundargarh district has resulted in one fatality and left another person fighting for their life. Early on Monday morning, a trailer truck carrying no cargo met with a tragic fate when it plunged into the Shankh river near Jamunanaki.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The 16-wheel trailer truck, which was en route to Birmitrapur, reportedly lost control around 3 am. According to police statements, the vehicle broke through the bridge's barricade before falling into the river below. The impact and subsequent submersion led to catastrophic consequences for those inside.
Immediate rescue operations were launched after authorities received information about the accident. Personnel from Brahmani Tarang police station and officers from Birmitrapur police station rushed to the spot and promptly alerted fire services to assist with the emergency response.
Rescue and Medical Response
Fire brigade personnel worked diligently at the accident site, recovering the body of the driver and rescuing the helper from the submerged vehicle. Both individuals were immediately transported to Rourkela Government Hospital (RGH) for medical attention.
Doctors at RGH declared the driver brought dead upon arrival, while the helper, who had sustained critical injuries in the accident, was admitted for urgent treatment. The medical team is providing comprehensive care to the injured survivor.
Identification and Family Notification
The deceased driver has been identified as Sukinder Singh, a 43-year-old resident of Punjab. The injured helper is Jagdip Singh, aged 35, who also hails from Punjab. Police authorities have taken the necessary steps to inform the families of both men about the tragic incident.
The driver's body will be handed over to his family members once they arrive in Rourkela to complete the formalities. This process will be conducted with appropriate sensitivity and respect for the grieving family.
Police Investigation and Recovery Efforts
On Monday morning, police officials revisited the accident site to conduct further investigation into the circumstances that led to this tragedy. The vehicle involved in the accident has been seized by authorities as part of the ongoing inquiry.
P Behera, sub-inspector at Brahmani Tarang police station, confirmed that investigations are actively progressing. "We have seized the vehicle and are investigating the case," stated Behera. Police plan to record the helper's statement once his medical condition improves sufficiently to provide details about the accident.
Efforts to retrieve the trailer truck from the Shankh river are currently underway. The recovery operation presents logistical challenges given the vehicle's size and the river's conditions, but authorities are committed to completing this task.
Road Safety Concerns in the Region
This tragic incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety in the Sundargarh district of Odisha. The early morning timing of the accident raises questions about driver fatigue and visibility conditions that may have contributed to the vehicle losing control.
Local authorities are expected to review safety measures along this route, particularly examining the bridge barricades and overall road infrastructure to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The investigation will seek to determine whether mechanical failure, human error, or environmental factors played a role in this devastating accident.
