Bhubaneswar: A couple died on the spot after being hit by a car and then a truck while crossing National Highway 16 at Randha under Golanthara police station in Ganjam district on Thursday morning.
The deceased have been identified as Harishchandra Das and his wife Pari Das, residents of the Dalit sahi in Randha.
According to reports, the couple was crossing the highway around 11:30 am on Thursday to visit a medicine shop when the accident occurred. A speeding car first hit them, followed by a truck. Both sustained severe injuries and died due to excessive blood loss at the spot.
Following the incident, angry residents of the Dalit Sahi blocked both sides of the national highway. They burnt tyres and staged a protest, demanding compensation for the victims’ families.
Upon being informed, police reached the spot and persuaded the protesters to clear the road after discussions.
