Close Call in Rayagada: Train Hits Ambulance at Unauthorized Railway Crossing

An ambulance carrying patients narrowly escaped disaster after being struck and dragged by a goods train in Odisha's Rayagada district. The incident occurred at an unauthorized railway crossing. Due to the train's slow speed, a major catastrophe was avoided. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

In a dramatic incident in Odisha's Rayagada district, an ambulance narrowly avoided a major disaster after being struck by a goods train and dragged for approximately 100 meters on Monday. Officials confirmed that the train's speed of 60-65 kmph played a crucial role in mitigating the damage.

The collision took place between Shikarpai and Bhalumaska railway stations, where the ambulance opted for an unauthorized crossing instead of a designated underground passage. The vehicle belonged to a private eye hospital and was transporting patients from Shikarpai for surgeries.

Divisional Railway Manager Amitabh Singhal, who visited the accident site, stated, "There is a proper underground passage available, but some locals have been using the unauthorized crossing, which led to this unfortunate incident. Thankfully, no one was injured."

(With inputs from agencies.)