Berhampur, Jan 31: At least five people lost their lives and several others were injured after a speeding truck collided with three motorcycles at Haladiapadar Square on a National Highway in Odisha’s Berhampur on Saturday.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the incident and announced an ex-gratia assistance of ₹4 lakh each for the families of the deceased.

The accident led to chaos at the scene, with bodies lying scattered across the road and traffic coming to a complete halt for a considerable period.

According to preliminary information, the truck was travelling on the wrong side of the highway when it rammed into multiple two-wheelers. The vehicle reportedly struck three motorcycles and ran over the victims, killing five people on the spot.

More than eight others sustained injuries and were immediately taken to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur for medical treatment.

Police and district administration officials rushed to the location soon after the incident. Authorities have launched an investigation to identify the deceased and establish the exact sequence of events.