Eight Persons Killed and Several Injured in Tragic Accident in Keonjhar, Odisha

Eight people from two families were killed and seven others were injured in a tragic accident in Keonjhar, Odisha. The incident occurred early on Friday morning when a minibus collided with a parked truck from behind on NH-20 near Balijodi. The families were on their way to Ghatagaon from Ganjam district to offer prayers at the Maa Tarini shrine.

The deceased have been identified as Mita Pradhan, her son Akash, daughter-in-law Lili, Bayakhand Gauda, Madan Gauda, Mamina Gauda, and Babina Gauda. The name of one deceased member of the Gauda family has yet to be ascertained. The front section of the minibus was severely damaged, and the bodies of the deceased and injured were scattered along the road.

This tragic accident occurred on the first day of the Zero Fatality Week campaign, launched by the Odisha transport department to reduce road accident deaths. As part of the campaign, police have been instructed to adopt a zero tolerance policy against drunk drivers and to arrest them immediately.

The accident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for stricter enforcement of traffic rules. It is crucial for drivers to remain alert and adhere to speed limits to prevent such accidents from occurring. The authorities should also ensure that parked vehicles are properly marked and illuminated to avoid collisions.

The injured individuals have been rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. It is hoped that they will receive the necessary medical care and recover soon. The families of the deceased are mourning their loss, and the community is coming together to support them during this difficult time.

Road accidents continue to claim numerous lives every year, and it is essential to prioritize road safety measures. Strict enforcement of traffic rules, public awareness campaigns, and improvements in infrastructure can help reduce the number of accidents and save lives.