Two persons died, and seven others sustained injuries after a rice-laden pickup van overturned near Kachapaju village under Bishamakatak police limits in Rayagada district late Saturday night.
The deceased were identified as Drinz Saraka and Madan Saraka. One victim died on the spot, while the other succumbed to injuries at the Bishamakatak Community Health Centre.
Reports said the victims were returning from a rice mill when the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn. The accident left several passengers injured. Among them, Hima Saraka suffered serious injuries and was referred to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur for advanced treatment.
Other injured persons, including Dhabaleswar Saraka, Ajit Saraka, and Nabin Saraka, are undergoing treatment at Bishamakatak hospital. Three others received primary treatment and were discharged.
Police launched an investigation to ascertain the circumstances that led to the accident.
