An elderly man died after a train operated on Vedanta’s private rail line struck him while he crossed the tracks near Ambadala in Odisha’s Rayagada district.
Bhagirathi Takri, 59, a resident of Chudipada village under Ambadala police limits, was reportedly crossing the rail line for work when the accident occurred. The impact severed his left leg below the knee. Locals rushed him to Ambadala Government Hospital in a critical condition.
Doctors provided initial treatment and transferred him via 108 ambulance to Rayagada District Headquarters Hospital. Medical staff there prepared to shift him to Berhampur for advanced care, but he succumbed to his injuries before the transfer.
The incident took place on the rail line connecting Vedanta’s facility, which passes through Muniguda block. Witnesses described the scene as shocking, with Bhagirathi’s son and wife carrying his severed leg in a bag while accompanying him to the hospital.
Family members, including his wife Sabita Takri, alleged negligence by the company-operated train. They claimed the train hit him while he was crossing for work-related reasons and demanded accountability.
Local authorities have launched an investigation into the accident. Police are recording witness statements and examining safety protocols along the rail corridor.
The tragedy has sparked concern among residents about the safety of private industrial rail lines operating through populated areas. Community members are urging stricter oversight and preventive measures to avoid future mishaps.
ALSO READ: Odisha to Appoint Permanent Lecturers Soon: Higher Education Minister
