Tragedy in Sundargarh: Pickup Van Overturns, 1 Dead, 17 Critically Injured

(OT Webdesk)A devastating road accident shook Sundargarh district on Monday morning when a pickup van carrying over 35 labourers overturned near Karodahuli in Bonai block.

The vehicle was returning from a forest-based NREGA worksite in Telidihi when it lost balance and flipped near Kelo Square around 8 AM.

Among the passengers, 71-year-old Panchami Patra tragically lost her life, while 17 others sustained critical injuries.

Nine victims are currently receiving treatment at Bonai Hospital, and the rest have been shifted to Rourkela for advanced medical care.

Eyewitnesses and local sources revealed that the NREGA work involved only photo documentation, raising serious concerns about the legitimacy and safety of such operations.

The absence of forest department officials at the hospital and accident site further fueled public outrage.

In protest, villagers blocked the road and carried the deceased’s body to the Forest Department office, demanding accountability and compensation.

The incident has sparked widespread debate over working conditions under NREGA in forest zones, with allegations of low wages and superficial documentation practices.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement.