Phulbani: A pregnant woman was killed and five persons sustained serious injuries after an ambulance rammed a roadside tree reportedly due to rash driving Sunday night.
The deceased was identified as Sumajini Pradhan (38) of Murudikupda village under Raikia police limits.
The injured were Sumajini’s husband Naresh Pradhan, sister-in-law Anusaya Pradhan, driver Ashok Pradhan, Prabesh Pradhan and Asha worker Nirupama Digal. The injured were rescued and rushed to the district headquarters hospital.
Tikabali police registered a case over a complaint lodged by Sumajini’s brother-in-law Bhajaman Pradhan and launched an investigation.
According to sources, Sumajini was admitted to Raikia hospital after she experienced labour pain. However, doctors referred her to the district headquarters hospital after her condition worsened. Family members requisitioned an ambulance to ferry her to Phulbani.
The incident took place near Shankarakhol College Chhak. Sources said the driver felt drowsy and lost his control over the vehicle. The ambulance rammed a roadside banyan tree, sources said.
Fire brigade personnel reached the spot and rescued the injured. However, Sumajini was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital. PNN