Storm Turns Deadly: Pilgrims’ Car Crashes Into Lorry Near Palasa, Two Critical

A horrific road accident on Sunday evening along the national highway near Palasa in Srikakulam left three persons injured, two of them in critical condition, after a car lost control and collided with a lorry amid severe weather conditions.

The incident occurred near the Nemali Narayanapuram bypass when a Toyota Innova, carrying pilgrims returning from the Jagannath Temple, veered off course during heavy rain and strong winds.

The injured have been identified as Mukesh Panigrahi, Amulya Patro, and driver Achyutananda Barada, all residents of Parlakhemundi.

According to reports, torrential rainfall and gusty winds reduced visibility and made roads slippery. The driver reportedly lost control due to the storm, causing the vehicle to mount the divider and enter the opposite lane, where it collided head-on with a speeding lorry.

The impact was severe, leaving the car mangled. The vehicle overturned multiple times before crashing into nearby agricultural fields.

Locals and passersby rushed to the spot and rescued the trapped occupants before informing emergency services. The injured were initially taken to Palasa Government Hospital.

Due to the seriousness of their injuries, Mukesh Panigrahi and Achyutananda Barada, who suffered severe head and internal injuries, were later shifted to Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences for advanced treatment. Their condition remains critical.

Police from Kasibugga Police Station have registered a case and initiated an investigation. Circle Inspector Y. Ramakrishna stated that preliminary findings indicate overspeeding combined with sudden storm conditions may have caused the vehicle to hydroplane, leading to the loss of control.

The lorry driver is currently being questioned as part of the ongoing probe.

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