Berhampur: A woman carried her uncle's body on her shoulders for nearly five kilometres after a vehicle carrying the body failed to reach their village due to roads damaged by heavy rainfall triggered by Cyclone 'Arnab'. The incident took place in Aliar village under Ankuli panchayat in Patrapur block of Odisha's Ganjam district.

The deceased, identified as Shankar Karji, was suffering from a brain tumour. His niece, Lalita Pradhan, had admitted him to the MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur on October 2 for treatment. He was later shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Kataka on October 18 for further treatment.

Shankar died while undergoing treatment on October 29.

Ambulance stops 5 km away from village

Following his death, arrangements were made to transport his body from Kataka to his native village in a 'Mahaprayan' vehicle.

However, heavy rainfall caused by Cyclone 'Arnab' had severely damaged the road, making it impossible for the vehicle to reach Aliar village. It stopped near Tadakasahi, around five kilometres away from the village.

With no vehicle available to cover the remaining distance, Lalita took the responsibility of carrying her uncle's body on her shoulders.

Amid heavy rain and strong winds, she walked nearly five kilometres to reach her village with the body. After reaching Aliar village, the last rites of Shankar Karji were performed.