Research scholar dies, another injured in late night road mishap on IIT Bhubaneswar campus
On the night of January 13, 2026, a tragic road accident occurred on the campus of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar, resulting in the death of a third-year research scholar and leaving another scholar injured. The incident has raised concerns about safety regulations and transportation policies within the expansive campus.
Details of the Incident
The victims of the accident were identified as Shankhasubhra Chakraborty, a third-year PhD scholar, and Shakti Sagar Srivastav, a first-year research scholar, both affiliated with the School of Earth, Ocean and Climate Sciences. The accident took place around 11:20 PM when the two scholars were riding a scooter from their hostel towards the academic zone.
According to eyewitness reports, the rider, Chakraborty, lost control of the vehicle, leading to a collision with a curb. The impact of the crash was severe, and a nearby security patrol, alerted by the sound of the accident, quickly responded to the scene. Upon arrival, they found Chakraborty lying unconscious on the road with significant injuries, while Srivastav was conscious but lying on the pavement.
Immediate Response and Medical Treatment
The security team acted swiftly, transporting both students to the institute’s Sanjeevan Hospital for immediate medical attention. Despite the emergency treatment and CPR administered at the hospital, Chakraborty was unfortunately declared dead upon arrival at Manipal Hospital, where he was referred for advanced care. Srivastav, on the other hand, was admitted to the Neuro ICU, where his condition is currently reported to be stable.
Investigation and Safety Regulations
The local Jatni police have initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident. An official from IIT Bhubaneswar described the incident as unfortunate and emphasized that the institute has established strict regulations regarding two-wheeler usage on campus. Only PhD students are permitted to ride scooters, and they must adhere to a prescribed speed limit to ensure safety.
Transportation Policies at IIT Bhubaneswar
The IIT Bhubaneswar campus spans 936 acres, which necessitates efficient transportation options for students and staff. To facilitate movement across the campus, the institute offers various modes of transportation, including:
- Bus services
- Bicycles
- E-rickshaws
Despite these options, PhD scholars have been granted permission to use scooters due to the immediate nature of their research work, which often requires quick access to laboratories located approximately 3 kilometers from the hostels.
Community Reaction
The tragic loss of Shankhasubhra Chakraborty has sent shockwaves through the IIT Bhubaneswar community. Fellow students and faculty members have expressed their condolences and support for the affected families. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for enhanced safety measures and awareness regarding road safety among students.
Potential Safety Improvements
In light of this incident, several potential improvements to safety protocols have been proposed, including:
- Increased awareness campaigns about road safety and responsible driving among students.
- Installation of additional speed bumps and signage in high-traffic areas of the campus.
- Regular safety workshops and training sessions for students who are permitted to ride scooters.
- Enhanced monitoring of traffic rules adherence through security patrols.
These measures could contribute to preventing similar accidents in the future and ensuring the safety of all campus residents.
Conclusion
The tragic accident involving Shankhasubhra Chakraborty serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly in educational institutions where young individuals are often navigating new environments. As the IIT Bhubaneswar community mourns the loss of a promising scholar, it is imperative that steps are taken to enhance safety measures on campus to protect students and prevent future tragedies.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on reports and statements available as of January 13, 2026. Further updates may emerge as investigations continue.
