Jeypore: As many as seven persons were killed and more than 10 persons were critically injured after the pick-up van they were travelling in overturned in Koraput.
According to reports, the accident took place late this evening near Murtahandi under Kotpad police station limits when a pick-up van ferrying over 20 passengers turned turtle after losing control on the NH-326.
Sources said the victims were returning to Kulta village in Chhattisgarh after attending the 10th-day mourning rituals of a deceased person hailing from Sindhuguda village.
If locals are to be believed, the pick-up van was overloaded and the driver was speeding on the NH which resulted in the crash.
Reportedly, the district administration officials are on the spot to take stock of the situation. The injured have been shifted to the nearby hospital. However, the rescue team is facing difficulties due to darkness.
While seven persons lost their lives, the death toll is expected to increase as several other victims are undergoing treatment in the local hospital and their health condition is stated to be critical.
