Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today expressed grief over the tragic bus accident in Ganjam district that claimed at least 12 lives and left several others injured.

The CM announced ex-gratia of Rs 3 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund.

He also announced free medical treatment for the injured victims.

The CM further directed Finance Minister Bikram Keshari Arukha and Berhampur MLA Bikram Panda to rush to the spot to monitor the situation.

At least 12 persons of a marriage party were killed, and several others sustained injuries as a private bus carrying them and an OSRTC bus collided head-on near Digapahandi on the Berhampur-Taptapani road in Odisha’s Ganjam district, late last night.

Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M confirmed that seven others were injured during the accident.

The injured victims were promptly transported to MKCG Medical College and Hospital here for treatment. Two of the wounded individuals have been shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for better treatment.

Tragically, the deceased include seven members of a family and their relatives, all of whom were returning to Khandadeuli near Digapahandi after attending a wedding party in Berhampur.

Police authorities swiftly responded to the scene, rescuing the injured victims and promptly transferring them to medical facilities.

Furthermore, the Special Relief Commissioner has sanctioned Rs 30,000 each for the injured individuals, ensuring they receive the necessary treatment under the supervision of the Ganjam district administration.