116 migrant workers rescued from overcrowded bus in Malkangiri; Owner fined ₹24,200
Published By : Bratati Baral
| June 5, 2025 12:21 PM
Malkangiri, June 5: Authorities in Malkangiri rescued 116 Dadan migrant workers from an overcrowded private bus traveling from Hyderabad to Kantabanji. The bus, operated by Balaji Travels under a tourist permit, was found carrying 120 passengers despite having a seating capacity of only 40.
Acting on a tip-off, officials from the Transport and Labour Departments intercepted the bus near MV-16 village on NH-326. Following inspection, the bus owner was fined ₹24,200 for overloading.
The rescued workers, returning home to Balangir and Nabarangpur after working in Hyderabad, were provided refreshments and safely sent home on alternative transport. Labour officials have also issued a notice to a suspected trafficking agent from Balangir.
Earlier this week, another overcrowded bus from the same operator met with an accident at Bija Ghat, injuring 25 migrant workers.
