A major road accident occurred on National Highway 16 near Bahanaga old market area today when a truck suddenly reversed and collided with a pilgrim-carrying vehicle, injuring 10 passengers.
According to reports, the iron rod-laden truck (NL-01AH-8937) was travelling from Balasore towards Soro when two of its wheels veered off the road at Bahanaga. As a result, the truck reversed unexpectedly. A pilgrim vehicle (MH-42KE-3120) heading towards Puri from the opposite direction rammed into the rear of the truck.
Of the 11 passengers in the pilgrim vehicle, 10 sustained injuries. The injured were initially rushed to Khantapada Community Health Centre. Five of them were in critical condition and were subsequently transferred to Balasore Medical College & Hospital.
National Highway ambulance services played a key role in transporting the victims, while others were sent to local hospitals in Soro and Gopalpur. ASI Maheshwar Majhi of the National Highway Patrolling Police reached the spot promptly and coordinated the rescue and medical evacuation efforts.
The pilgrims were reportedly travelling from Maharashtra to Puri for a pilgrimage. Police are investigating the incident, including the truck driver’s sudden loss of control and wheel detachment, which led to the reversal.
No fatalities were reported, but authorities have urged drivers to exercise caution on the busy NH-16 corridor.
