Bhadrak Student Dies in Road Mishap; Locals Block NH-16 in Protest

Bhadrak: Tension flared at Bhandaripokhari in Bhadrak district on Thursday after a college student died in a tragic road accident.

The victim, identified as Shradhanjali Panda, a Plus II student of Bhandaripokhari College, was reportedly on her way to classes when she was hit by a sand-laden tractor. According to eyewitnesses, she was riding her bicycle when the vehicle struck her from behind, running her over. She was immediately taken to the nearby hospital, where doctors declared her dead.

Following the incident, angry locals blocked National Highway 16, demanding strict action against the driver and better traffic enforcement in the area. The blockade led to severe disruption, with hundreds of vehicles stranded on both sides of the highway for hours.

Police rushed to the spot and initiated an investigation into the incident, while efforts were made to restore normal traffic flow.