Basudebpur/Bhadrak, May 16: More than 20 labourers were injured after a pickup truck carrying over 30 workers overturned near Bekmudi Chhak, close to Basudebpur police station, early on Friday morning.

According to reports, the pickup, en route from Bhadrak, suddenly lost balance for unknown reasons and overturned on the road. Many of the labourers on board fell into the water, sustaining injuries in the process.

Rescue teams, including the fire brigade, 112, and 108 ambulance services, promptly reached the site and rushed the injured to Basudebpur hospital. Five of the victims, in critical condition, were later transferred to Bhadrak district hospital for further treatment.

Police are investigating the exact cause of the accident, while authorities have appealed to transport operators to maintain safety, especially when carrying large numbers of passengers.