Tragic road accident in Rayagada: Two dead, one critically injured after scooter brakes fail.
Rayagada: Two people died and another was critically injured in a tragic road accident in Odisha’s Rayagada district on Friday. The incident occurred while the three were returning on a scooter after visiting a temple. En route, the scooter’s brakes suddenly failed, causing the vehicle to lose control and crash into an electric pole by the roadside. The impact was so severe that two individuals died on the spot, while the third was admitted to the hospital in critical condition.
The deceased have been identified as Sasmita Panda, a renowned dance teacher from Gunupur town and a recipient of the President’s Award, and Shambhunath Das, a resident of Rajakanika in Kendrapara district. The third person injured in the accident is undergoing treatment at the hospital; according to doctors, his condition remains critical, and he is receiving advanced medical care.
According to reports, the three devotees were returning on a scooter after offering prayers at the temple on Friday. Suddenly, the scooter’s brakes stopped working. The driver attempted to control the vehicle, but due to the steep slope and brake failure, the scooter’s speed increased rapidly. Moments later, it crashed into a roadside electric pole. The crash was so loud that people nearby rushed to the scene upon hearing the noise.
Locals immediately extricated the victims from the scooter and transported them to a nearby hospital using an ambulance and other vehicles. However, doctors declared Sasmita Panda and Shambhunath Das dead. The third injured person received first aid and is now being provided with specialized medical care.
Upon receiving news of the accident, local police arrived at the scene and inspected the site. The police have seized the damaged scooter and initiated an investigation. Preliminary inquiries suggest that brake failure was the cause of the accident; however, the police are also conducting a technical examination to ascertain the exact cause. A case has been registered regarding the incident, and further action is underway. News of Sasmita Panda’s passing sent a wave of grief through the cultural circles of Gunupur and the surrounding areas. A renowned dance teacher from Odisha, she had made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Indian classical and cultural arts. She was honored with the President’s Award in recognition of her talent and outstanding contributions to the field of art. Over the years, she trained numerous students and earned acclaim through her performances and guidance at various national and state-level cultural events.
Members of the cultural community have described Sasmita Panda’s death as an irreparable loss. Her disciples, colleagues, and well-wishers expressed deep sorrow, noting that Odisha’s cultural world has lost a dedicated mentor and a source of inspiration. Many people also paid tribute to her on social media, remembering her contributions.
Meanwhile, the passing of Shambhunath Das has also cast a pall of gloom over his family and his home district of Kendrapara. Locals expressed their condolences to the families of both deceased individuals and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured person.
Road safety experts emphasize the critical importance of regular technical inspections for two-wheelers. Periodic checks—particularly of brakes, tires, and other safety components—can significantly reduce the risk of such accidents. Motorists are also advised to exercise extra caution when driving on hilly or sloping roads.
The police have urged the public to check the technical condition of their vehicles before setting out on a journey. Any detected faults should be repaired immediately to prevent accidents. Two-wheeler riders have also been strongly advised to wear helmets and adhere to traffic regulations.
The police are currently conducting a detailed investigation into the matter. The bodies of the deceased will be handed over to their families following the completion of post-mortem procedures. This tragic incident has once again highlighted the importance of road safety and vehicle maintenance.