Berhampur, Feb 27: In a tragic road accident on Thursday, two employees of a borewell drilling vehicle lost their lives and five others were injured after the vehicle overturned in the Nimakhandi area of Ganjam district. The mishap occurred near a hatchery at Jhadankuli village while the vehicle was passing through the area.

Preliminary reports suggest that the driver of the borewell drilling vehicle attempted to avoid colliding with a cyclist who unexpectedly appeared in front of the vehicle. In an effort to dodge the cyclist, the driver swerved off the road but reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn.

The driver was trapped beneath the vehicle and died instantly. Another worker, identified as Shivaji Kanhar, succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident. The two deceased have been identified as Rabi Naik and Shivaji Kanhar.

Five others, including the cyclist, were rescued by locals and promptly taken to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur for treatment. Their condition is being closely monitored.

Police reached the scene shortly after receiving information and have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.