6 killed, 40 injured in road accident

Midnapur, Apr 15 (UNI) At least six people were killed and 40 others seriously injured when a pick-up van carrying at least 70 passengers overturned and fell in a ditch on the Salboni Goaltore Road near Ranijur forest under Salboni block this morning.

Police said the van, carrying a marriage party, was returning from a wedding ceremony from Sijua to Anusole village under Goaltore police station area.

While trying to save an oncoming motorcycle, the van fell into a nearby ditch.

Sanatan Murmu (12) died on the spot and other five people, including three women, Astami Murmu (29), Pallabi Handa (17), Sonali Murmu (15), Srimati Murmu (65) and Kandan Hansda (40), died in Midnapur Medical College&Hospital.

At least 40 injured were admitted to the Midnapur Medical College&Hospital. Their condition was stated to be critical.

Others injured in the accident were administered first aid and discharged. The driver of the van was admitted to a nearby Goaltore Hospital. His condition was stated to be serious.

Traffic was closed for five hours following the accident.

The deceased were inhabitants of Nimdanga and Tentuldanga village under Goaltore police station.

UNI