Argus News - Breaking News: Odisha Sees 1,616 Road Accidents in 2026, Most Road Mishaps Occurs on Sundays

Bhubaneswar, Mar 12: Odisha has reported alarming statistics about road mishaps, with 1,616 accidents occurring this year until March 6, according to data presented in the State Assembly.

Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena revealed the figures in a written reply to a question raised by MLA Ananta Narayan Jena.

The data shows that Sunday alone accounted for 276 accidents, making it the most dangerous day of the week for road users.

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Since the beginning of 2026 till March 6, the state has recorded 1,616 accidents, resulting in 1,025 deaths and 1,594 injuries.

Breaking down the figures by road type, 447 accidents occurred on National Highways, claiming 270 lives and injuring 469 people. On State Highways, 246 accidents led to 150 deaths and 259 injuries.

Other roads across the state witnessed 910 accidents, with 594 fatalities and 856 injuries. Expressways recorded 13 accidents, causing 11 deaths and 10 injuries.

The Transport Department also reported strict enforcement of traffic laws. Over the past two years, fines amounting to ₹2,84,71,64,232 have been collected from violators of the Motor Vehicles Act. Additionally, 1,16,618 driving licenses have been cancelled for repeated traffic violations.

Meanwhile, Bhubaneswar Commissionerate Police has launched a special initiative to ease congestion at traffic posts. A “Free Left Zone” drive is underway at 20 traffic posts in the capital, ensuring smoother passage for vehicles, especially ambulances, school buses, and emergency services.

Bollards have been installed to demarcate left-side lanes, preventing unnecessary jams and delays. The initiative has been personally inspected by the Additional Police Commissioner, with Traffic DCP leading the special drive.