Odisha: 8 killed as truck rams into bus in Balasore, CM Patnaik announces ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh

At least eight people were killed and several injured when a coal-laden truck rammed into a passenger bus in Odisha's Balasore district.

At least eight people were killed while several others were injured when a coal-laden truck hit a passenger bus from behind at Soro in Balasore district.

As per reports, the bus which was en route to Bhubaneswar from Udala was stationary when it was hit in the rear by a coal-laden truck. Due to the impact, the bus turned turtle on the roadside, causing several deaths on the spot.

The deceased are yet to be identified. A one-year-old baby is among those killed, reports said. Many of the injured are said to be in critical condition.

Those with minor injuries were admitted to Soro hospital, while the critical patients were shifted to Balasore district headquarters hospital (DHH).

Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed deep sorrow over the incident and loss of life and declared an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakhs each to the families of the deceased. Patnaik also directed the authorities to ensure best possible treatment to all who have sustained injuries in the accident.

One of the passengers spoke to India Today and recounted the accident. She said, "We were sitting inside the bus, when all of a sudden we heard a loud noise. The bus was hit from behind and the bus jumped for some distance and overturned. We were all crying and shouting for help. I thought me and my kids were going to die. After sometime, someone cut the window and pulled us out."

Sources said the death toll is likely to rise as a few critically injured were referred to SCB Medical college and Hospital in Cuttack.