Accident Near Takera Ghat on NH-57
A tragic road accident occurred near Takera Ghat under Dasapalla police limits in Nayagarh district, Odisha, when a picnic bus lost control and overturned after hitting a large roadside rock. The incident took place around 1 AM on the Khordha–Balangir highway (NH-57), turning a festive trip into a devastating tragedy.
5 Dead, Over 30 Injured
The mishap claimed the lives of five passengers, including the driver, while more than 30 others sustained injuries. Among the injured, at least 10 people are reported to be in critical condition and have been shifted to hospitals in Bhubaneswar for advanced treatment.
Victims Identified
The deceased have been identified as Haripatra, Laxmi Patra, Suprabha Sahu, Sumati Sahu, and the bus driver Praveen Sahu. Reports suggest that three of the victims were women.
Pilgrimage Trip Turns Fatal
According to reports, around 55–60 passengers from the Berhampur region were traveling to the Harishankar temple in Balangir when the accident occurred. The bus reportedly lost balance near the ghat area and crashed into a large boulder before overturning along the roadside.
Emergency Response and Rescue Operations
Following the accident, police and fire services teams rushed to the spot and carried out rescue operations. The injured were immediately transported to nearby medical facilities. Around 45 injured passengers were admitted to the Dasapalla Community Health Centre, while the critically injured were referred to the Nayagarh District Headquarters Hospital.
Government Announces Compensation
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced financial assistance of ₹4 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for the families of the deceased. The Chief Minister expressed condolences and prayed for the departed souls.
Investigation Underway
Dasapalla police have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. Preliminary suspicion points toward reckless driving or possible intoxication of the driver, though officials have not confirmed the exact cause. Further inquiry is ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the fatal crash.