Sambalpur: In a tragic incident, one woman was killed and at least four others were critically injured in a road accident that took place today morning in Jujumura in Odisha's Sambalpur district. The mishap occurred around 8.00 am on NH-55 near Phuljharan under Jujumura police limits.The deceased has been identified as 55-year-old Bed Kharasel, a resident of Beherasinghgarh. She reportedly succumbed to her injuries on the spot.

As per preliminary reports, an auto-rickshaw carrying around 12 passengers was on its way from Beherasinghgarh to the Maneswar weekly market when a speeding truck rammed into it from behind. The force of the collision caused the auto to lose balance and overturn on the busy highway. While Kharasel died instantly, four other passengers sustained serious injuries and were left in critical condition. Several others are also believed to have suffered minor injuries in the accident.

Passersby rushed to rescue

Locals in the area were the first to respond, quickly rescuing the injured from the overturned vehicle. They arranged for immediate transportation and shifted the victims to the District Headquarters Hospital in Sambalpur for treatment.

On receiving information, police personnel from Jujumura police station rushed to the accident site. They have initiated an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the accident. Both the truck and the auto-rickshaw have been seized for further examination.

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