Balasore: A tragic incident occurred on National Highway 16 near Tarini Chack under Simulia police station in Balasore, where a bus carrying pilgrims from Puri overturned, leaving over 30 tourists seriously injured. The accident happened around 3 am when the driver allegedly fell asleep, causing the bus to ram into a roadside divider.
The injured pilgrims, mostly from Mohanpur area of West Bengal, were returning from a visit to Lord Jagannath’s shrine in Puri. Prompt action by Simulia police led to the rescue of everyone on board, and the injured were admitted to Simulia CHC and Soro hospitals. Three critically injured passengers were later shifted to Balasore General Hospital for better medical care.
The passengers were taken out of the bus by breaking the windows, and the police have initiated an investigation into the incident. The driver and helper fled the scene but were reportedly apprehended by the police. An inquiry is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident
