Newly Unveiled Birsa Munda Statue Inaugurated Amidst Tragic Accident
Sundargarh, November 16, 2024
The 150th Bir Birsa Munda Jayanti was marked by the inauguration of a newly unveiled statue of the legendary tribal leader at Narikalyan Square, Sundargarh, yesterday. The grand celebrations included a cultural procession with music and dance troupes from various parts of the region, showcasing the rich tribal heritage.
Tragically, the day was marred by an accident involving a music and dance troupe from Budabahala village in Tangarpali Block. While en route to the celebrations, their pickup truck overturned near the Truck Owners' Association Office in Sundargarh. The accident occurred when the driver swerved to avoid a collision with a motorcyclist, losing control of the vehicle.
As a result, twelve individuals sustained injuries and were rushed to the District Headquarters Hospital for immediate medical attention. Among the injured, two women—Tulasi Munda and Parvati Munda—were critically hurt and referred to Burla Medical College for advanced treatment. The remaining ten individuals, identified as Kaletosh Munda, Biki Munda, Sanjeev Munda, Ambika Munda, Savita Munda, Sushila Munda, Binita Tapano, Chandra Oram, Sita Barla, and Saibini Oram, are currently undergoing treatment at the district hospital.
Upon learning about the incident, Sundargarh MLA Jogesh Kumar Singh promptly sent a delegation from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) to visit the victims. The team, led by senior leader and MLA’s representative Jay Narayan Tripathy, along with former municipal chairman Benudhar Tandia and Bir Birsa Munda Statue Committee Chairman Pancha Barla, met with the injured and their families.
Mr. Tripathy also held discussions with Additional District Medical Officer (ADMO), Dr. Guru Prasad Mahanta, to assess the treatment provided and ensure the victims received proper care. He urged the hospital staff to remain vigilant and extend the best possible medical attention to the injured. The delegation conveyed their wishes for the swift recovery of all victims.
Later in the evening, MLA Jogesh Kumar Singh personally visited the injured at the hospital, offering his assurance of further medical support if necessary. His compassionate gesture brought some solace to the victims and their families during this difficult time.
The unfortunate accident overshadowed an otherwise memorable celebration of Birsa Munda’s legacy, highlighting the need for safer transportation arrangements for such events
