A BSF jawan lost his life and six others sustained injuries in a devastating road accident near Chintoor in Malkangiri district.
The incident occurred when a private car carrying BSF personnel collided with a truck en route to the 142 Battalion BSF camp in Balimela.
The deceased, identified as Havildar Gaurav Pandey, was among the seven occupants traveling from Khammam, Andhra Pradesh, to Malkangiri. The vehicle met with the accident on a remote stretch of road near Chintoor. The impact of the crash left five jawans and the driver critically injured.
Local authorities rushed the injured to Chintoor Hospital for emergency treatment. Medical staff confirmed that the condition of the wounded remains serious. The BSF jawans were returning to their camp after a short break when the tragedy struck.
Eyewitnesses reported that the car was attempting to overtake when it collided head-on with the truck. The force of the collision crushed the front of the vehicle, trapping the passengers inside. Rescue teams worked swiftly to extract the injured and transport them to safety.
Officials from both Andhra Pradesh and Odisha have launched a joint investigation into the cause of the accident. Preliminary findings suggest poor visibility and reckless driving may have contributed to the crash.
The BSF community mourns the loss of Havildar Pandey, whose service and dedication remain exemplary. Authorities are coordinating with the families of the victims and ensuring proper medical care for the injured.
