A major road accident in Odisha's Berhampur has claimed the lives of five people and left six others injured. The incident occurred on Saturday at Haladiapadar Square, along the National Highway, when a truck collided with three motorcycles.

According to reports, the truck was traveling on the wrong side of the National Highway when it hit the motorcycles. The heavy vehicle reportedly rammed into the two-wheelers, resulting in fatal injuries. The scene was chaotic, with bodies scattered on the road, causing a significant traffic disruption.

Emergency services responded quickly to the scene. Eight individuals were reported to be injured. However, other reports indicate that more than ten people sustained injuries. The injured were immediately transported to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur for treatment.

Inspector General of Police (Southern Range) Niti Shekhar stated that a preliminary investigation suggests the truck was being driven on the wrong side of the road. The driver initially fled the scene but was later apprehended by police. Authorities will conduct a medical examination of the driver.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his condolences for the deceased and announced an ex gratia of ₹4 lakh each for the families of the deceased from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. He also directed officials to ensure the best possible medical treatment for those injured. Opposition leader Naveen Patnaik also expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident.

The accident has raised concerns about road safety in Odisha. Data from 2024 indicates that overspeeding was a major factor in road accidents, leading to numerous deaths. Wrong-side driving, drunken driving, mobile phone use, and jumping red lights also contributed to accidents and fatalities. The data further reveals that a significant percentage of accidents and fatalities occur on national and state highways, with two-wheelers being the most frequently involved vehicles.