Bhubaneswar, 2 August (H.S.): Thirteen jawans of the Odisha Special Armed Police (OSAP) Second Battalion were injured in a serious road accident near Jarapada on National Highway 55 in Angul district during the early hours of Saturday.

The incident occurred around 3:30 AM when the pickup van carrying the jawans from Jharsuguda to Chandaka in Bhubaneswar rammed into a stationary truck from behind. Preliminary reports suggest the driver of the van may have fallen asleep at the wheel, leading to the collision.

The impact of the crash was particularly severe on the left side of the vehicle, where seven jawans were seated. All seven are reported to be in critical condition. One jawan reportedly suffered a dismembered hand, while others sustained serious injuries, including head trauma and eye injuries.

Local police responded promptly to the scene, rescuing the injured personnel and transporting them to the Angul District Headquarters Hospital. Two critically injured jawans were later shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital (SCB MCH) in Cuttack for advanced treatment. Authorities confirmed that the condition of the remaining jawans is being closely monitored, and they may also be transferred to SCB MCH if required.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda