Rayagada: In a tragic mishap, at least five persons including four children died after a section of an under-construction culvert reportedly collapsed in Kalyansinghpur block of Odisha's Rayagada district here today.

The incident took place in Uparasaja village of the block, at around 11 am.

As per reports, the culvert, which is being constructed by the Rural development department, caved in when the children were bathing in the nullah and went near the structure in the morning. On getting information, police and fire services personnel reached the spot and started work to clear the debris.

Odisha Law Minister Jagannath Saraka, local MLA Makaranda Muduli and Rayagada SP Vivekanand Sharma also visited the spot and took stock of the situation.

Stating it is a very unfortunate incident, the MLA said necessary action against the persons responsible for the mishap need to be taken.

Expressing deep grief over the loss of lives in the incident, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced Rs 4 lakh ex-gratia for family members of each deceased. The CM has also ordered to take strong action against officials responsible for the mishap.

Official sources said the identities of the deceased are yet to be established and investigation is underway. Further details are awaited.

(With Agency inputs)