Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has declared a compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of two individuals who lost their lives when an advertising hoarding collapsed on them in Bhubaneswar. The victims, Tuna Gouda and Sachidananda Pradhan, tragically died in the incident that occurred in the Aiginia area of the city. The Chief Minister also pledged financial aid from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to support the bereaved families.
The collapse was a result of a sudden change in weather conditions caused by a Nor’wester, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall to Bhubaneswar. The incident led to the hoarding falling near the Aiginia Durga Mandap, claiming two lives and causing damage to nearby shops. Prompt action by local residents helped rescue the victims trapped under the hoarding, but they were declared dead upon arrival at Capital Hospital.
Following the tragedy, police and fire services personnel arrived at the scene to clear the road blocked by the fallen hoarding. Subsequently, family members and relatives of the deceased staged a protest by blocking the National Highway at Aiginia, demanding justice for the victims. The protest disrupted traffic flow, prompting senior police officials and local administration representatives to intervene and assure the families of necessary assistance and support.
The authorities’ assurances led to the withdrawal of the blockade by the protesting families, restoring normal traffic operations in the area.
