Chhatrapur: A huge tree fell on National Highway 516 connecting Chhatrapur and Gopalpur in Odisha’s Ganjam district following strong winds and incessant rain, disrupting vehicular movement on the busy route.

The giant banyan tree fell across the road, narrowly missing several people and nearby houses. Following the incident, traffic movement between Chhatrapur, Aryapalli, Gopalpur, and other adjoining areas was severely affected.

Fire and emergency services personnel reached the spot and began cutting and removing the tree to clear the highway. Officials said the clearance operation could take around two hours.

There is also a possibility of more trees falling in the area due to the strong winds. Similar incidents of trees being uprooted and falling on roads have been reported from several other locations.