Jajpur, July 24 (UDN): A 108 emergency ambulance met with an accident on National Highway-16 near Khanditar Bridge in Odisha’s Jajpur district on Friday after the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle.

The mishap left the ambulance driver and an attendant seriously injured, while the patient being transported and an accompanying family member escaped unhurt.

According to sources, the ambulance was carrying a patient from Barchana to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for treatment when the accident occurred around noon.

Police said the vehicle reportedly veered off its lane and crashed into the concrete crash barrier near the bridge after the driver lost control.

Driver, Attendant Hospitalised

Following the accident, local residents and emergency responders rushed to the spot and shifted the injured driver and ambulance attendant to the Dharmasala Community Health Centre for medical treatment.

The patient inside the ambulance and a relative travelling with them were safely rescued and did not sustain any injuries.

Police Launch Investigation

A team from Kuakhia Police Station reached the accident site soon after receiving information and initiated an investigation into the circumstances that led to the crash.

Police are examining whether overspeeding, mechanical failure or other factors contributed to the accident.

The damaged ambulance was later removed from the highway, and normal traffic movement was restored.

Authorities said further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.