Bhubaneswar, Mar 25: Around 40 passengers had a miraculous escape after a tree fell on an OSRTC bus in Ganjam district on Tuesday, highlighting the dangers posed by sudden weather disturbances.

The incident took place near Vijaylakhmi Narayanpur village under Digapahandi block when strong norwester winds uprooted a tree, which came crashing down onto the moving bus. The vehicle, operated by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation, was traveling from Digapahandi to Vijay Lakshmi Narayanpur at the time.

Although the impact caused visible damage to the bus, no passengers sustained injuries, leaving many shaken but safe. Local residents and authorities quickly reached the spot to assist passengers and clear the road, ensuring normal traffic movement resumed soon after.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert, forecasting thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with speeds of 40–50 kmph in several districts over the next two days. Districts likely to be affected include Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Balasore, Bhadrak, Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, and Koraput.

Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions.

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