Photo Credit: Deccanchronicle
Date & Time: Tuesday, 22nd April 2025, around 4:30 AM
Location: Gati Raouipatna, Cuttack-Paradip Road, Odisha
Incident Summary:
In the early hours of April 22, a tragic road accident occurred near Gati Raouipatna on the Cuttack-Paradip Road in Odisha. A sand-laden Hyva truck, allegedly speeding, rammed into a Police Control Room (PCR) van from the CRRI Police Station.
As a result of the collision:
- Two police personnel died on the spot-one from the Odisha Police and one Home Guard.
- One more police personal was critically injured and is currently undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack.
- The PCR van was completely damaged.
- The Hyva truck driver has been arrested, and a police investigation is underway.
Odisha Government Response:
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He announced an ex-gratia of ₹10 lakh each for the families of the deceased and assured full support to the injured personnel.
What Were Possible Causes of this Incident?
- Was driver drowsiness at 4:30 AM a contributing factor?
- Was the driver fatigued or sleep-deprived?
- Did low visibility during early morning hours play a role?
- Was the HYVA truck over speeding?
- Did the PCR van brake suddenly, leading to a rear-end collision?
- Did the driver lose control of the truck?
- Was the PCR van possibly stopped or moving slowly in a blind spot?
- Was lack of professional training or careless driving by the Hyva driver a factor?
- Could there have been other contributing factors?
Aftermath & Reflection:
This tragic accident has left not only the police force but the public in shock. When those who serve to protect lives are not safe themselves on the roads, it raises deep concerns. While vehicles can be replaced, the loss of life is permanent. The pain and trauma suffered by the injured personnel will likely last a lifetime.
This incident should prompt everyone to reflect and ask:
Are we truly valuing lives on the road?
Road Safety Tips:
- Drive slow, stay safe.
- Avoid driving in low-light conditions.
- Do not drive while drowsy or fatigued.
- Maintain a safe distance from vehicles, especially heavy ones.
- Avoid sudden braking – always scan with rear-view mirrors.
- Do not park vehicles on active roadways.
- Be cautious of blind spots, especially when driving near large vehicles.
Drive safe. Stay safe.
Value every life on the road.
Saferoadlife
Also Read – HighwaySafety
