Tragic Gate Collapse Claims Lives of Two Young Students in Gajapati
In a heartbreaking incident on Wednesday, two girl students lost their lives after an iron entrance gate, along with its supporting column, collapsed on them at a government primary school in Rubudisingh village, located under the Nuagada block in Gajapati district. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community and prompted swift action from authorities.
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred at the Govt Primary School in Rubudisingh after classes had ended for the day. According to sources, the victims, identified as Beckylesh Raita (10), a Class V student, and Idanti Raita (9), a Class IV student, both residents of the same village, were playing near the entrance gate when the structure suddenly gave way. They were trapped under the debris and were quickly rescued by locals who rushed them to a nearby hospital. Unfortunately, doctors declared them dead upon arrival.
Community Outrage and Official Response
Tension gripped the area as villagers gathered at the school, demanding compensation for the tragic deaths of the young students. The situation was brought under control following the intervention of police and local administration officials. Key officials who rushed to the spot included:
- Tehsildar of Nuagada, Monalisha Acharyee
- Block education officer Adikant Gamango
- Personnel from the R Udayagiri police station
These officials worked to pacify the agitating villagers. The bodies of the deceased were sent for post-mortem to the district headquarters hospital in Paralakhemundi, as confirmed by police reports.
Chief Minister's Intervention and Inquiry
Expressing deep grief over the incident, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi ordered a revenue divisional commissioner (RDC)-level inquiry to probe the circumstances that led to this tragedy. According to a statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the RDC of the southern division will conduct the investigation. In a compassionate gesture, the chief minister announced an ex gratia assistance of Rs 3 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF) to the families of the deceased girls.
Ongoing Investigations and Structural Concerns
District education officer Mayadhar Sahu, along with other senior officials, visited the site to assess the situation. Sahu stated, "An inquiry is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the incident." Sources indicate that the inquiry team is also examining critical aspects such as:
- When the boundary wall and gate were constructed
- Whether the structure was in a dilapidated condition prior to the collapse
This tragic event underscores the urgent need for regular safety inspections of school infrastructure across the region to prevent such accidents in the future.
