Bhubaneswar, Dec 3: In a tragic incident from Hatibandha village under the Anandapur block of Keonjhar district, a primary school cook who suffered severe burn injuries while preparing mid-day meals has passed away. The deceased, identified as 45-year-old Tapoi Pradhan, died today while undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack.

The accident occurred on November 27 when Tapoi was preparing lunch for students under the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme on the school premises. During the cooking process, her saree accidentally caught fire, leaving her critically injured. At the time of the mishap, other cooks had gone to a nearby market to procure groceries, leaving Tapoi to manage the kitchen alone. Hearing her cries, several school students rushed in and tried to douse the flames by pouring water on her, helping prevent further damage.

Local residents quickly intervened and shifted her to Anandapur Hospital. As her condition worsened, she was referred to SCB Medical College and Hospital for advanced treatment. Despite medical efforts, Tapoi succumbed to her injuries, leaving the village and school community in deep grief.

Powered by Froala Editor