Phulbani: One person was burnt alive and three others sustained grievous burn injuries after an auto-rickshaw and a car caught fire following a head-on collision in Phulbani town on Saturday.
According to preliminary reports, the accident occurred near Vetkhal Ghat in the Datapaju area of Phulbani when the two vehicles collided head-on. The impact triggered a fire, engulfing both vehicles within moments.
Sources said the driver of the auto-rickshaw was trapped inside the vehicle and was burnt alive as the flames spread rapidly. Two passengers travelling in the auto-rickshaw also suffered severe burn injuries in the mishap.
The car involved in the accident had two occupants, including the driver. While the driver reportedly fled the scene after the collision, the other occupant sustained burn injuries.
On receiving information, three fire tenders from the Phulbani Fire Service, along with police personnel, rushed to the spot. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control, but by then the auto-rickshaw had been completely gutted.
All three injured persons were rescued and rushed to Phulbani District Headquarters Hospital, where their condition was stated to be critical.
Police have launched an investigation into the incident, and efforts are underway to trace the absconding car driver.
