Berhampur, Aug 22: In a tragic mishap, five people dead, while 19 others suffered injuries Thursday in a road accident involving a bus and an oil tanker. 

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed his grief over the incident and announced ex-gratia for the next of kin of each deceased.

The incident took place near Samarjhola Chowk in the wee hours when an oil tanker collided with a passenger bus. The tanker was reportedly trying to overtake a truck which led to the accident. Both the bus and tanker rammed into a nearby tea stall following the collision.

The identities of the deceased are yet to be ascertained. However, preliminary investigation has revealed that three of them were the customers at the tea stall while another was a passenger in the bus. The fifth deceased succumbed to injuries at the hospital.

Police reached the spot after getting the information and started rescue operations. All the injured victims were rushed to MKCG Medical College and Hospital.

The bus was reportedly coming from Berhampur and heading towards Aska, while the tanker was coming from opposite direction. The tanker was trying to overtake a truck on its way, when it collided with the bus. After the collision, both the vehicles lost balance and rammed into the nearby tea stall. 

Ganjam Collector Dibyajyoti Parida arrived at the hospital after getting the information. Speaking on this tragic mishap, Parida said, "Five persons are dead. The injured are getting treated right now." 

Meanwhile, Dr Saroj Das, a doctor at the hospital, said that 13 injured persons have arrived so far at the hospital. "Two of them are in critical condition. Others are being treated and are stable," said Dr Das.

CM Majhi has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the next kin of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh to the injured persons. He has also ordered to provide free medical treatment to the injured wishing them a speedy recovery.

“I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the death of 5 people in a road accident near Samarjhola Chowk in Ganjam. I pray to Lord Sri Jagannath for the repose of their immortal souls and express my condolences to the bereaved family.” CM Majhi posted on his X handle.

Read More: Odisha News