Breaking News: Fatal Bus Accident Claims 12 Lives in Odisha
The Chief Minister of Odisha has announced that families of the deceased will receive compensation of Rs. 3 lakhs, while those who were injured will be given Rs. 30,000.
There have been at least 12 fatalities and seven injuries due to a head-on accident between two buses in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. In the Digapahandi police district of Ganjam, the event happened on Sunday night close to Khemundi College.
The fatal accident occurred when two buses travelling in opposite directions collided on a narrow stretch of road, leading to a devastating impact.
According to eyewitnesses and initial reports, the buses travelled at high speeds, compounding the collision’s severity. The force of the crash caused extensive damage to both vehicles, leaving them mangled wrecks.
The District Magistrate of Ganjam Dibya Jyoti Parida first informed reporters that everyone hurt in the accident had been sent to the MKCG Medical College for treatment, according to the news agency ANI. “Two buses collided, killing ten passengers. The injured were treated right away after being brought to MKCG Medical College. A case investigation is being conducted. When speaking to the press, Dibya Jyoti Parida remarked, “We are trying to help the injured in every way we can. An injured guy in serious condition has been sent to SCB Hospital in Cuttack. The Ganjam Collector stated that all medical care preparations had been done here.
Upon receiving the distress call, local authorities and emergency services swiftly rushed to the accident scene. Rescue operations were initiated, and the injured were immediately taken to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. The coordination and promptness of the response teams deserve recognition, as their efforts helped save several lives and mitigate the impact of this tragic incident.
Tragically, the collision resulted in the loss of 12 lives. The victims included passengers from both buses, with men, women, and children among the fatalities. The injured, numbering more than 20, receive medical care, with some individuals in critical condition. The devastating impact of this accident has left a profound effect on the affected families, who are now grappling with immense grief and sorrow.
Following standard protocol in such cases, authorities have initiated an inquiry to ascertain the reasons behind the collision. Preliminary findings suggest that a combination of factors, including reckless driving, over-speeding, and poor road conditions, may have contributed to the tragedy.
 A thorough investigation must ascertain the exact circumstances that led to this catastrophic event. If any lapses or negligence are discovered, appropriate action must be taken to hold the responsible parties accountable.
The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the pressing need to prioritize road safety measures in the region. Authorities must reevaluate the condition of existing roads, mainly those prone to accidents, and take necessary steps to improve infrastructure. This includes widening roads, installing speed limit signs, enhancing traffic management systems, and conducting regular maintenance to minimize risks.
SP Saravana Vivek of Berhampur added, “Prima facie, it appears to be a case of a head-on accident involving two buses at approximately 1 in the morning. While those on the OSRTC bus only suffered minor injuries, several passengers of the private bus were killed and injured in the collision.
The private vehicle, carrying a wedding party from Khandadeuli hamlet in the district, was travelling back from Berhampur. At the same time, the OSRTC bus was its route from Rayagada to Bhubaneswar, according to the SP.
Naveen Patnaik, the chief minister of Odisha, expressed sorrow over the deaths of those involved in the bus accident in Ganjam and made an ex gratia payment of Rs. 3 lacks to the deceased’s next of kin. The chief minister’s office released a statement saying that Patnaik has directed that the injured receive free medical care and wished them quick recovery.
In addition, the Chief Minister has given the Finance Minister, Vikram Arukh, Ganjam DPCC Chairman and MLA Vikram Panda orders to visit the scene right now and aid the victims.
As of the latest report, twelve people have died due to injuries, including six men, four women, and two kids.
The tragic head-on collision between two buses in Odisha, resulting in the loss of 12 lives, is a grim reminder of the urgent need to prioritize road safety. As investigations continue to determine the exact causes, all stakeholders must work together to prevent similar accidents in the future. Through improved infrastructure, stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, and comprehensive awareness campaigns, we can create safer roads and protect the lives of countless individuals. Let us remember the victims of this devastating incident and strive to build a future where such tragedies become a thing of the past.
