Rayagada: A fatal road accident in Odisha’s Rayagada district early Monday morning claimed the life of a truck driver from Uttar Pradesh. The mishap took place near Buduni Chhak under Bishamakatak block, where a blanket of dense fog severely hampered visibility on the state highway.
According to initial reports, the truck, carrying a load of iron materials from Visakhapatnam to Rourkela, skidded off the roadway after the driver apparently lost control in the poor visibility. The vehicle overturned, trapping the driver beneath the heavy cargo.
Police officers from the Bishamakatak station and Fire Services personnel rushed to the accident site. The rescue operation was extremely challenging, as teams were forced to cut through the piled iron materials using gas cutters. After hours of painstaking effort, the driver’s body was retrieved from the mangled wreck.
Residents from nearby areas gathered at the location, stunned by the intensity of the crash and the demanding rescue work that followed. Authorities confirmed that the truck was loaded with industrial-grade iron products. While the driver is believed to be from Uttar Pradesh, official confirmation of his identity is still awaited, and an investigation is underway.
This incident highlights the recurring hazards faced by motorists during winter in Odisha, especially in fog-prone regions like Rayagada where visibility can drop abruptly. Police have once again appealed to truck drivers and operators of heavy vehicles to remain extremely vigilant while driving in foggy conditions.
The tragedy has renewed concerns over road safety in the state. Officials emphasized the need for greater awareness about winter driving risks and commended the rescue teams for their swift and dedicated response.
Investigators are expected to establish the victim’s identity soon. The crash stands as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by thick fog along major transport routes.
