A heart-wrenching road accident near the Patrapada V2 showroom in Bhubaneswar has left an 8-year-old girl dead and her mother and 2-year-old brother in critical condition.
The incident occurred on the evening of Raksha Bandhan when the family was returning from a visit to Nandankanan. The deceased, identified as Reshma Raul, was killed on the spot, while her mother, Rebati Raul, and younger brother, Mahi Raul, were rushed to the AIIMS Bhubaneswar ICU with life-threatening injuries.
According to eyewitnesses, the family had alighted from a bus and was crossing the road to reach Phuleshwari Basti when a speeding Mahindra Thar, allegedly racing with a Scorpio, struck them. The Thar fled towards Khordha after the collision, while the Scorpio passed without incident.
Tamando police arrived promptly, transferring the victims to AIIMS Bhubaneswar and initiating an investigation. The police are currently searching for the absconding vehicle and have recorded statements from witnesses.
The Raul family, residents of Phuleshwari Basti, had visited a relative’s home in Nandankanan to celebrate Raksha Bandhan. The tragedy struck as they attempted to cross the busy national highway near Patrapada. Reshma’s father, Manas Raul, reached AIIMS upon receiving the news. No formal complaint has been lodged yet, but the Tamando police are actively pursuing the case.
The accident has reignited demands for a foot overbridge at Patrapada Chowk, a notorious spot for frequent accidents. Locals argue that pedestrians, especially those heading to Phuleshwari Basti, face significant risks crossing the highway due to the lack of safe infrastructure. The absence of a foot overbridge has long been a concern, with residents now pressing authorities for immediate action to prevent further tragedies.
