Sonepur, November 6 (UDN): Several passengers sustained injuries after an OSRTC bus collided with a tractor carrying a paddy harvesting machine near Kulipali Chowk on National Highway-57 in Odisha’s Sonepur district on Friday morning. Dense fog and poor visibility are suspected to have contributed to the accident.
According to reports, the government-run passenger bus was travelling from Bhubaneswar towards Balangir when the mishap occurred. The bus reportedly rammed into the tractor before veering off the road, triggering panic among passengers.
Although several passengers suffered minor injuries, a major tragedy was narrowly averted. Following the accident, local residents and rescue personnel rushed to the spot and helped evacuate the injured passengers.
The injured passengers were immediately shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in Sonepur for medical attention. After receiving preliminary treatment, they were discharged.
Meanwhile, the tractor driver and a motorcyclist who was passing through the area at the time of the collision sustained serious injuries. Both were admitted to the DHH and are undergoing treatment.
Personnel from Haradakhol Beat reached the accident site after receiving information about the incident. An investigation has been initiated to ascertain the exact circumstances leading to the collision.
The accident once again highlights the dangers of driving during dense fog, particularly on highways, where reduced visibility can significantly increase the risk of road mishaps. Motorists have been advised to exercise caution and maintain safe distances while travelling in foggy conditions.