A horrific road accident on the Bhubaneswar-Puri National Highway claimed two lives today, including a prominent media professional. The incident occurred near Jamalpur Chack under the jurisdiction of the Pipili police station.
The victims, identified as Bhubaneswar-based private channel reporter Sheela Patnaik and a female companion, were traveling via scooter toward Puri. According to eyewitnesses, the scooter lost balance due to a sand pile neglected in the middle of the road. A private bus, 'Sarala,' trailing closely behind, was unable to brake in time and ran over the duo. Both women tragically died on the spot.
Local authorities arrived shortly after the collision. The Pipili police have since detained the bus driver and helper for questioning and seized the vehicle. This incident has sparked fresh concerns regarding highway safety and the hazardous placement of construction materials on busy transit routes.