PhD scholar killed another injured in scooter accident on IIT-Bhubaneswar campus
Bhubaneswar, January 13, 2026 – A tragic incident occurred on the campus of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar late Monday night, resulting in the death of a PhD scholar and leaving another critically injured. The accident has raised concerns about safety on campus roads and the well-being of students.
Details of the Incident
The accident took place around 11:20 PM when two PhD scholars were riding a scooter. According to a statement released by IIT-Bhubaneswar, the rider lost control of the vehicle while navigating a turn, leading to a collision with a median on the campus road.
Immediately following the crash, a nearby security patrol heard the impact and rushed to the scene. They found the rider severely injured on the road, while the pillion rider was conscious but lying on the pavement. Prompt action was taken to transport both students to the institute’s Sanjeevan Hospital.
Emergency Response
Upon arrival at Sanjeevan Hospital, both scholars received initial emergency treatment. The medical team administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to the severely injured rider. However, due to the extent of his injuries, he was referred to Manipal Hospital for advanced care.
Tragically, the rider, identified as Shankhasubhra Chakraborty, succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival at Manipal Hospital. The pillion rider, identified as Shakti Sagar Srivastav, remains in stable condition and is currently being treated in the Neuro Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Victims’ Background
Both Shankhasubhra and Shakti hailed from Kolkata and were pursuing their PhDs at IIT-Bhubaneswar. This incident has shocked the academic community, prompting discussions about road safety and the responsibilities of students while navigating campus infrastructure.
Campus Safety Concerns
The IIT-Bhubaneswar campus is known for its sprawling grounds and modern facilities. However, this tragic accident highlights potential safety issues that need to be addressed. Some of the concerns raised include:
- Road Conditions: The condition of campus roads and the adequacy of signage and barriers at critical turns.
- Speed Limits: The enforcement of speed limits for vehicles on campus to ensure the safety of all students.
- Awareness Programs: The need for awareness programs focusing on safe driving practices among students.
- Emergency Response: The efficiency of emergency response teams and their readiness to handle such incidents.
Community Response
The loss of Shankhasubhra Chakraborty has left a profound impact on the IIT-Bhubaneswar community. Fellow students and faculty members have expressed their condolences and shared memories of the deceased scholar. Vigorous discussions are ongoing regarding how to enhance safety measures on campus to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
In light of this incident, the administration is expected to review current safety protocols and may implement new measures aimed at improving the overall safety of students on campus.
Conclusion
This unfortunate accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly within educational institutions where young adults are navigating their independence. As the IIT-Bhubaneswar community mourns the loss of a promising scholar, it is essential to reflect on the necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
Note: This article is based on information provided by PTI and has not been independently verified.
