Jajpur Bus Accident: Preliminary Findings Point to ‘Driver Negligence’

Jajpur: A preliminary investigation into the horrific bus accident in Odisha’s Jajpur district points towards driver negligence as the primary cause. The incident, which occurred on Monday evening, claimed the lives of five passengers and left 40 others injured.

Lal Mohan Sethi, Additional Commissioner Transport (Road Safety), visited the accident site and addressed the media. “Based on initial findings, the accident likely occurred due to rash driving, improper overtaking manoeuvres, or the driver using a mobile phone while at the wheel,” Sethi informed reporters.

Sethi emphasized that the investigation found no mechanical issues with the bus. Registered in 2020, the vehicle reportedly had a valid fitness certificate issued as recently as March 2024.

Concerns regarding bridge infrastructure were also addressed. “The flyover was equipped with proper barricades and signage,” Sethi confirmed. “There’s no evidence to suggest engineering deficiencies played a role in the accident.”

The SCB Medical College Hospital in Cuttack provided an update on the injured. A total of 46 passengers were admitted following the accident. While 19 remain hospitalized, the remaining individuals received initial treatment and have since been discharged. Among those still hospitalized, five are in ICU, with two being critical.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 3 lakh each. The Chief Minister’s office also confirmed that the injured will receive free medical treatment.