National Highway 59 in Baliguda, Kandhamal district, has become a hotspot for road safety concerns following a series of tragic accidents that left one person dead and several others critically injured.
The back-to-back incidents, involving a hit-and-run by a speeding car and a fatal head-on collision, have cast a pall of gloom over the region.
According to reports, the first incident unfolded near Dandapadar on the outskirts of Baliguda town. A car hit a pedestrian before speeding toward the town. Continuing its reckless run, the same vehicle struck a motorcyclist right in front of the Baliguda Sub-Divisional Hospital. Following the twin collisions, the driver attempted to flee the scene. However, acting on a tip-off, the Baliguda Police gave chase and successfully intercepted the car near Jakikia.
Police have seized the vehicle and detained five individuals inside, who reportedly hail from Balangir district. Locals suspect the driver was under the influence of alcohol, though official confirmation is awaited pending medical examination. The two injured individuals have been admitted to the Baliguda Sub-Divisional Hospital for treatment.
In a separate tragedy under the Baliguda Police Station limits, a car collided head-on with a motorcycle near Bataguda. The fierce impact claimed the life of Padma Mallick, a resident of Banemila village. The pillion rider, Gopal Mallick, sustained critical injuries and was rushed to the hospital.
Preliminary reports suggest that dense morning fog severely reduced visibility on the highway, contributing to the fatal crash at Bataguda, though an official police statement detailing the exact cause is yet to be released.
These twin tragedies have sparked widespread concern regarding road safety on NH-59. Reckless driving, disregard for traffic rules, and a lack of caution during low-visibility conditions are making highway travel increasingly perilous.
Local residents are now demanding stricter enforcement of traffic laws, regular police patrols to check over-speeding, and severe penalties for drunk driving to prevent such horrific recurrences in the future.
