Nayagarh, Oct 9 (UDN): Maheshwar Mahapatra, the 56-year-old principal of Saranakul Mahavidyalaya in Odisha’s Nayagarh district, died under tragic circumstances while travelling on a MEMU train from Bhubaneswar to Nayagarh on Thursday. He is suspected to have suffered a heart attack during the journey.
According to reports, Mahapatra did not get off at his intended destination, Nayagarh railway station, and the train continued towards Daspalla. His body was reportedly discovered inside the coach by a railway cleaning worker after the passengers had disembarked at Daspalla station.
The worker alerted railway officials, following which the Government Railway Police (GRP) were informed. Mahapatra was subsequently taken to the Daspalla Community Health Centre, where doctors attended to the case.
The exact cause of death is yet to be established, with a post-mortem examination expected to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.
Sudden Loss Leaves College Community in Mourning
Mahapatra had been serving as the principal of Saranakul Mahavidyalaya, located in the Odagaon block, for the past three years. His sudden demise has sent shockwaves through the institution and the surrounding area.
Students, faculty members and local residents have expressed grief over the loss of the academic administrator, whose death has left the college community mourning.
Had Visited Daughter in Bhubaneswar
According to local reports, Mahapatra had travelled to Bhubaneswar on Wednesday to meet his daughter. During the visit, he reportedly held discussions with her prospective in-laws and finalised plans for her wedding, scheduled for January 26. He had also visited the family because one of its members was reportedly unwell.
After spending time with his son and daughter, Mahapatra boarded a train on Thursday to return to Nayagarh.
His death during the return journey has added to the tragedy for his family, who were reportedly preparing for the upcoming wedding.
Mahapatra hailed from Rabara village under Odagaon police station limits and resided in College Lane in Nayagarh.
Further details regarding the post-mortem examination and the circumstances of his death are awaited.