In a tragic incident highlighting the perils of fuel shortages in remote areas, a man in Malkangiri district, Odisha lost his life on Sunday when the motorbike carrying him to the hospital ran out of petrol during a medical emergency.

The incident occurred in Kusumput village, where Basant Khil sustained critical injuries after falling from a mango tree. Basant had climbed the tree to pluck fruits when he suddenly fell. His family immediately attempted to take him to Mathili hospital on a motorbike, but the vehicle reportedly ran out of petrol midway.

Family Raises Alarm Over Petrol Shortage

Family members alleged that petrol was unavailable in the area at the time, forcing them to seek alternative transport. An ambulance was eventually contacted, and Basant was shifted to Mathili hospital for treatment. Given the severity of his injuries, doctors referred him to Malkangiri District Headquarters Hospital (DHH). Unfortunately, Basant died before reaching the facility.

Relative Chaitanya Dora said, “While taking the injured man to the hospital, the bike ran out of petrol midway, and the nearby petrol pump was not supplying fuel. Later when we reached the hospital, doctors informed us that he had passed away.”

Petrol Shortages in Malkangiri Continue to Worry Residents

Reports indicate that petrol shortages have been ongoing in several parts of Malkangiri district. Locals have expressed concern over the potential life-threatening impact of fuel scarcity during emergencies, citing Basant’s death as a tragic example of the problem.