At least five people, including a woman, lost their lives, and several others were injured when a passenger bus plunged off an overbridge on National Highway-16 in Jajpur, Odisha. The tragic incident occurred in the Rasulpur area of Jajpur district at around 8 p.m. The bus, carrying approximately 55 passengers, was traveling to Haldia in West Bengal when the driver allegedly lost control, leading to the fatal fall.
Upon receiving the distressing news, emergency services rushed to the accident site to rescue the victims. Firefighters from Rasulpur and Chandikhol fire stations, along with local residents, worked together to extricate those trapped in the wreckage. Gas cutters were utilized to free the injured passengers, with a significant operation involving 16 ambulances and cranes. The swift response also saw the presence of Jajpur’s Superintendent of Police, medical teams, and administrative officials overseeing the rescue efforts.
Of the injured individuals, around 40 were promptly taken to a nearby hospital in Dharmasala, where, sadly, five individuals were pronounced dead by medical professionals. Ten more passengers were swiftly transported to the SCB Medical College and Hospital for further treatment. Odisha’s Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik, offered his condolences and announced a financial aid of Rs 3 lakh for the families of the deceased. The state government pledged to cover all medical expenses for the injured, highlighting their support during this tragic time.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers on the road and the importance of prioritizing safety measures while traveling. Our thoughts are with the families affected by this terrible accident as they navigate this difficult period.
