A head-on collision between a tanker and a passenger bus at Samarjhola village in Odisha’s Ganjam district resulted in five deaths and left 12 others severely injured early Thursday morning, according to police reports.
The passenger bus was traveling from Bhawanipatna to Berhampur when it collided with the tanker, which was coming from the opposite direction. The tanker was reportedly speeding and attempting to overtake a stationary truck when the crash occurred. Both vehicles subsequently crash into a tea stall, where four people, including two vegetable sellers, were killed.
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Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and announced a financial compensation of Rs 2 lakh for each family of the deceased victims. He also extended his condolences to the affected families.
Additionally, Majhi announced Rs 1 lakh for those who sustained serious injuries in the accident and confirmed that the state government will cover the full cost of their medical treatment.
The injured were rushed to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur. According to District Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida, one of the injured passengers later succumbed to their injuries at the hospital. Five of the injured are currently in the intensive care unit, while the condition of the remaining patients is reported to be stable.
Parida confirmed that the accident occurred around 5 a.m. and highlighted the severity of the situation, with ongoing treatment for the critically injured.
The incident has drawn significant attention, prompting state officials to expedite aid and support for the victims and their families.
