Baripada: A series of road accidents occurred on National Highway No. 18 at Darakholi Square in Baripada on Wednesday morning, leaving at least two people injured, including a pickup van driver who sustained serious injuries.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident began when a sand-laden tractor was hit from behind by a pickup van. Moments later, a container truck rammed into the pickup, resulting in the driver being crushed and pinned inside the vehicle.
The injured pickup driver was initially unidentified. Local youths rushed to the scene and arranged for his immediate evacuation. He was later identified as Vijay Naik (25) and was shifted in a critical condition by ambulance to Pandit Raghunath Murmu (PRM) Medical College and Hospital, Baripada, where he is undergoing treatment.
In the chain of accidents, a motorcycle rider also sustained injuries and is receiving medical care at PRM Medical College.
Upon receiving information, personnel from Kuliana police station reached the spot, seized the tractor and pickup involved in the accident, and moved them to the police station premises. Further investigation into the incident is underway.
Meanwhile, public concern is mounting over the frequent occurrence of accidents at Darakholi Square. Locals alleged that despite repeated mishaps, the National Highways Authority has not put adequate traffic control measures in place. The absence of warning signboards declaring the stretch as accident-prone has further added to public dissatisfaction.
