Ten Injured in Bus Accident at Kataka Toll Gate, Odisha

Bhubaneswar, India Aug 23, 2026 ALN: Kataka: At least 10 people were injured, with two of them being in critical condition, after a bus was involved in an accident near Bandalo (Manguli) toll gate in Tangi area of Odisha’s Kataka district. The incident has raised concerns about road safety in the region, particularly on National Highway 16, which is known for its heavy traffic and frequent accidents.

The Executive AC Sleeper coach bus, with around 40 people on board, was travelling from Jajpur to Bhubaneswar when it hit the divider at the toll gate at high speed on Sunday afternoon. The bus's speed was reported to be around 100 km/h, which is significantly above the recommended limit for toll plaza approaches. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of speeding and reckless driving on Indian highways, where the volume of traffic has been steadily increasing.

Witnesses reported that the bus was initially heading towards lane No. 14 of the toll plaza. However, due to the presence of stationary vehicles in that lane, the driver attempted to divert the bus towards lane No. 16. Unfortunately, the driver lost control of the vehicle during this maneuver, leading to the collision with the roadside divider. This sudden impact caused the bus to shake violently, resulting in several passengers being thrown from their seats, which likely contributed to the severity of their injuries.

People nearby rushed to the scene to assist those on board, demonstrating a commendable sense of community and urgency in the face of an emergency. Local residents often play a crucial role in responding to accidents, especially in areas where emergency services may take time to arrive. Their timely intervention can sometimes make a significant difference in the outcomes for the injured.

Tangi police and personnel from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) were quick to respond to the incident. They worked together to rescue passengers and bus crew members trapped inside the vehicle. The injured were subsequently transported to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Kataka for treatment, where medical staff are currently assessing their conditions and providing necessary care.

The incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, particularly concerning speed limits in high-traffic areas such as toll plazas. The toll gate at Bandalo (Manguli) is a busy junction and serves as a critical point for vehicles traveling on National Highway 16, which connects various important cities in Odisha and beyond.

National Highway 16 itself is part of the Golden Quadrilateral project, which aims to improve connectivity between major cities in India. While the development of such highways is essential for economic growth and transportation efficiency, it also necessitates a focus on safety measures to protect the lives of travelers. The increasing number of vehicles on the road, combined with frequent instances of reckless driving, has led to a rising toll of accidents, prompting calls for better road safety initiatives.

In recent years, there have been various campaigns aimed at raising awareness about road safety in India, emphasizing the importance of obeying speed limits, wearing seat belts, and avoiding distractions while driving. However, despite these efforts, many drivers continue to engage in risky behaviors that endanger themselves and others.

The state government and local authorities may need to consider implementing additional safety measures at toll plazas, such as speed cameras, better signage, and more comprehensive driver education programs. Furthermore, regular inspections of public transport vehicles, including buses, could help ensure that they meet safety standards and are well-maintained, reducing the likelihood of mechanical failures that could lead to accidents.

The aftermath of this incident will likely prompt discussions among local officials and community leaders about the state of road safety in the region. As investigations continue into the causes of the accident, it will be essential to address the broader systemic issues that contribute to such incidents, including infrastructure challenges, driver behavior, and enforcement of traffic laws.

In conclusion, while the immediate focus remains on the health and recovery of those injured in the bus accident, the implications of this event extend far beyond the individual incident. It serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved road safety measures and community awareness to prevent future tragedies on the roads of Odisha and across India.