A chaotic scene unfolded near the Unit-II Petrol Pump in Bhubaneswar this morning when a reckless driver, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, ploughed through vehicles and pedestrians, leaving a trail of destruction and injuries.
The accused, identified as 42-year-old Anubhav Das, was arrested by the Capital Police Station authorities and now faces serious charges.
According to the complainant, Shibaram Das, the incident occurred between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM. While parking his vehicle (OD 02 CL 8480) near the petrol pump and having tea with his driver, an i20 car (OD 33 AF 9040) sped in from the AG Square side. Driven in a rash and negligent manner, the car first struck Shibaram’s vehicle before colliding with two auto-rickshaws and another car. The impact caused extensive damage to all vehicles involved. Tragically, the driver also hit two pedestrians, leaving several people injured.
Among the victims, Kalpataru Behera, Gokula Nayak, and Mangaraj Biswal sustained grievous injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment. The reckless driving spree, which authorities attribute to alcohol consumption, sent shockwaves through the busy area as onlookers scrambled to assist the victims.
Swift action by PCR personnel led to the apprehension of Anubhav Das at the scene. The investigation revealed that the accused drove erratically from AG Chhak toward Rajmahal Chhak, colliding with four vehicles and two pedestrians. After being assaulted by an angry crowd, the accused sustained injuries and was treated at the Capital Hospital. Police seized the damaged i20 car and related documents in the presence of witnesses, later releasing the vehicles to their owners after executing a zimanama.
Capital Police Station registered the case (No. 247, dated 01.06.2025) under Sections 281, 125(a), and 125(b) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles (MV) Act, citing rash driving, endangering lives, and driving under the influence. Anubhav Das, a resident of Plot No. 405/714, Annanta Vihar Phase-2, PS-Airport, Bhubaneswar, was arrested following due legal procedures.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about road safety and drunk driving in Bhubaneswar, with locals demanding stricter enforcement. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to ensure justice for the victims and prevent such reckless acts in the future.
Further updates on the case and the condition of the injured are awaited as the police probe deeper into the circumstances of this shocking Bhubaneswar drunk driving accident.
