BHUBANESHWAR:  Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik condoled grief over the death of the people in the bus accident AT Ganjam and declared an ex gratia of Rs three lakh to the next kin of the deceased.

 The collision occurred between an Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) bus and a private bus, leading to the unfortunate demise of at least ten individuals. Additionally, eight people sustained injuries in this head-on collision, which took place in Odisha's Ganjam district under the jurisdiction of the Digapahandi police. Patnaik's office has issued a statement directing the provision of free medical treatment to the injured passengers, accompanied by heartfelt wishes for their speedy recovery.

To ensure immediate assistance for the victims, the Chief Minister has instructed Finance Minister Vikram Arukh, Ganjam DPCC Chairman, and MLA Vikram Panda to promptly proceed to the accident site. This tragic road mishap unfolded near Digapahandi, an area within Ganjam district. All passengers, both from the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation bus and the private bus, have been admitted to the MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur.

Ganjam Collector Dibyajyoti Parida provided details, stating, "We have received information regarding the loss of ten lives in the accident. At present, six individuals are receiving treatment at MKCG hospital, while one critically injured person has been transferred to SCB Hospital in Cuttack. We have made all necessary arrangements here to ensure proper patient care."

During a media briefing, Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek shared initial findings, saying, "Based on preliminary evidence, it appears to be a case of a head-on collision between two buses around 1 am. Sadly, several passengers of the private bus have suffered fatalities and injuries, while those on the OSRTC bus sustained minor injuries." The OSRTC bus was en route from Bhubaneswar to Rayagada, whereas the private bus was returning from Berhampur, carrying a wedding party from Khandadeuli village.

Furthermore, the Berhampur SP mentioned that the Digapahandi police and fire services personnel promptly arrived at the scene and successfully rescued numerous passengers. He added, "The actual cause of the accident remains unclear, and our investigation is currently underway."

In light of this unfortunate event, the people of Ganjam mourn the lives lost and hope for a thorough investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding this heart-wrenching accident.

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