Kendujhar/Cuttack: A pall of gloom descended on the Kanjipani area of Kendujhar district and Badamba area in Cuttack district even as the state celebrates Raja festival, after seven people lost their lives in separate road accidents on Sunday.

According to reports, the first mishap occurred near the Baitarani bridge, where two persons — Akshaya Sanangi (40) and Laxman Sanangi (32), both residents of Kuanra — riding a two-wheeler were killed on the spot after being hit by an unidentified vehicle.

In another incident near Mangala Mandir Chhak in Kuanra, three youths from Padakasada village were killed after a truck allegedly coming from the wrong direction rammed into their motorcycle. All three died on the spot.

The three deceased youth have been identified as Suresh Pradhan, Shankar Pradhan and Dola Padhial.

In another major road mishap, a youth was killed after his motorcycle was hit by an autorickshaw on the T-bridge in Badamba. 

The accident occurred while the deceased, identified as Sushil Kumar Gochhi of Brundabanpur village, was on his way to his sister’s in-laws’ house on the occasion of the Raja festival. Six women travelling in the autorickshaw sustained injuries in the incident.

In Atharabanki area of Jagatsinghpur district, a youth riding a motorcycle was killed after being hit by a fish-laden truck on the Baliput overbridge. Another youth, who was riding pillion, sustained critical injuries.

According to reports, the two youths were returning home after completing their duties as Hyva truck drivers when the mishap occurred. The speeding truck allegedly rammed into the motorcycle and dragged it for several metres.

The deceased has been identified as Kalia Mandal of Balijhara slum. The identity of the injured youth is yet to be ascertained. He is currently undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack.

Upon receiving information, personnel from Paradeep Model Police Station reached the spot, seized the truck, and arrested the driver.