Bhubaneswar: A 25-year-old youth lost his life after being run over by a mixer truck at Totagaon village under Khalikote block in Ganjam district, on Friday.
The deceased has been identified as Tunu Barik.
According to sources, Tunu was walking along the road when the mixer truck, engaged in road construction work, suddenly veered off course and struck him. The truck dragged him for several meters before locals managed to rescue him.
Critically injured, Tunu was rushed to the nearby medical facility before being shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The devastating news left his nine-month-pregnant wife and family reeling in shock. The village erupted in outrage, with locals blocking the Khalikote-Totagaon main road, demanding compensation for Tunu’s family.
On a tip-off, police officials reached the spot and pacified the villagers assuring the protesters of adequate compensation. The irate villagers called off the agitation following police intervention.
Tunu’s untimely demise has left his family grappling with grief and uncertainty. His wife, now a widow, is struggling to come to terms with the loss of her partner and the father of her unborn child.