Odisha bus driver dies of heart attack while driving, yet saves lives of 60 passengers with quick thinking

In a tragic incident in Odisha's Balasore district on Tuesday, a bus driver's quick thinking and presence of mind averted a potential disaster. The unidentified driver, while ferrying tourists from West Bengal to Panchalingeswar Temple, suffered a sudden heart attack.

The incident unfolded at Patapur Chhak, where the driver, later identified as Sheikh Akhtar, experienced severe pain. Reacting swiftly, Akhtar skillfully maneuvered the bus to a stop on the side of the road before losing consciousness. The timely halt proved crucial, as it prevented a potential catastrophe, saving the lives of more than 60 passengers onboard.

Local authorities shared preliminary information, stating that the distressed passengers promptly sought help from nearby residents. The unconscious driver was rushed to the Nilgiri sub-divisional hospital, where medical professionals, unfortunately, declared him dead.


Amit Das, a passenger on the bus, recounted the alarming situation, stating, "The driver suddenly became sick and halted the bus. As soon as the vehicle stopped on one side of the road, he fainted. He was rushed to the hospital by local people where doctors pronounced him dead."

Despite the somber outcome, passengers and local residents have commended the late driver for his quick response, acknowledging that his decisive actions prevented what could have been a far more tragic incident. The incident serves as a reminder of the unforeseen challenges that can arise on the road and the critical role a driver's presence of mind can play in ensuring the safety of passengers.