A speeding truck allegedly driven by an intoxicated man mowed down a pedestrian before smashing into two homes and a shop in Odisha’s Ganjam district.
The accident occurred near Dhaugaon Chhak on National Highway 59.
The victim, identified as 48-year-old Basant Parida, was reportedly on his way to relieve himself when the truck—bearing registration number OD02AV3366—struck him fatally. Eyewitnesses say the driver lost control moments later, plowing into nearby structures and causing significant property damage.
Locals apprehended the driver as he attempted to flee. He allegedly confessed to overdosing on cannabis (bhang), which impaired his ability to control the vehicle. Police arrived promptly, taking the driver into custody and sending Parida’s body for postmortem.
The community erupted in protest, demanding justice and compensation for Parida’s family, who say he was their sole breadwinner. Authorities have registered a case and launched a full investigation into the incident.