Balangir: Two persons were killed after a truck rammed into their motorcycle from behind on National Highway 57 in Balangir district on Saturday, police said.
The deceased have been identified as Kahna Sarbhanga and Binod Barik, both residents of the Tarbha area. Binod Barik was reportedly employed at a hospital.
According to reports, the two were travelling towards Balangir for some work when a speeding truck hit their motorcycle from behind. Both sustained critical injuries in the collision.
On being informed, Puintala police, along with local residents, rushed to the spot and shifted the injured to Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital in Balangir, where doctors declared them dead.
The accident triggered tension at the spot, with agitated locals gathering at the scene. Police subsequently brought the situation under control and seized the truck involved in the accident.
An investigation has been launched to ascertain the exact circumstances leading to the mishap. The twin deaths have plunged the Tarbha area into mourning.
