A road accident that occurred today near Sananai village under Champua block in Keonjhar district, claimed the lives of three members of a single family.
The deceased have been identified as Aiban Pradhan, Mathamani Pradhan, and Mangal Pradhan.
According to reports, the family was traveling on a motorcycle to their daughter’s house to celebrate Holi. Mangal Pradhan, the son, was riding the bike with his parents, Aiban and Mathamani, when the tragic incident took place near Dolita Square on National Highway 20. The motorcycle collided head-on with a truck, resulting in catastrophic consequences.
Aiban Pradhan succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the accident. Mathamani Pradhan was rushed to Keonjhar Medical in critical condition but passed away during treatment. Mangal Pradhan, who was also severely injured, died while being transferred to the hospital.
The accident has sparked outrage in the local community, with residents blocking the road near Dolita Square by burning tires in protest. Tension prevailed in the area until police arrived at the scene, pacified the crowd, and cleared the blockade after consoling the aggrieved locals.
The Champua police have launched an investigation into the incident to determine the exact cause of the collision. The tragic loss of an entire family has cast a pall of gloom over the region, especially on what was meant to be a joyous occasion.