Jajpur, April 16: The Dharmasala police have initiated legal action against the bus driver who absconded after a tragic road accident at Barabati Chhak in Jajpur district, claiming five lives overnight.

Reportedly, the bus named 'Kalia Nana', en route from Puri to Digha in West Bengal, veered off the flyover and plunged 20 feet below near Barabati Chhak in Jajpur district due to the driver losing control.

Following the accident, the driver reportedly fled the scene. Police promptly registered a case and commenced a search operation for the driver.

Earlier in the day, Lal Mohan Sethi, Additional Commissioner of Transport, attributed the accident to the driver's negligence, suggesting reckless driving, distracted driving, or risky overtaking as potential causes. He noted that the bus, registered in 2020 and recently declared roadworthy in March, was in good condition.

The bus, carrying over 40 passengers on its journey from Puri to Haldia, resulted in five fatalities and left 20 injured.

Fire service personnel and locals immediately launched rescue efforts, transporting the injured to the Dharmasala Community Health Centre.

In response to the tragedy, the Odisha government announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 3 lakh each for the families of the deceased, expressing deep concern over the incident.

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