A major security scare unfolded late Friday night in Odisha’s Balasore district after a pickup van carrying explosives collided with a stationary truck near Alipur Chhak on NH-16 under the Soro police limits.
The van, which was reportedly en route from Cuttack to Balasore, sustained significant damage to its front after the crash. Local residents rushed to the scene and, upon discovering the vehicle was loaded with a large quantity of explosives, immediately alerted the Highway police.
By the time authorities arrived, the van’s driver had fled the scene. The vehicle, bearing a Balasore registration number, was seized and taken to Soro police station. Police have launched an investigation to determine the origin, destination, and intended use of the explosives.
Efforts are underway to trace the absconding driver and identify the owner of the van. The incident has raised serious concerns about unregulated movement of hazardous materials on public highways, prompting calls for stricter checks and surveillance.
