A youth died, and another sustained critical injuries after chasing a cattle-laden truck near Barikpur on National Highway-16 under Soro police limits in Odisha’s Balasore district.Reports said a group of youths received information about illegal cattle transportation and attempted to intercept the vehicle. Two youths, identified as Kripasindhu Behera and Lambodhar Mahapatra from the Panchalingeswar area, chased the truck on a motorcycle.During the chase, another vehicle allegedly escorting the cattle-laden truck rammed into their motorcycle. The impact threw both riders onto the highway. The escort vehicle fled the scene immediately.Locals rushed to rescue the injured youths and shifted them to Soro Hospital. Doctors declared Kripasindhu dead on arrival. Lambodhar suffered severe injuries and was moved to Balasore District Headquarters Hospital. Later, doctors referred him to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for advanced treatment.Police seized the vehicle involved in the collision and began investigating the case. Authorities confirmed that the attack occurred during an attempt to stop illegal cattle transportation.The incident has sparked outrage in Balasore, with locals demanding strict action against those involved in cattle smuggling. The tragedy highlights the dangers faced by individuals who attempt to intercept such vehicles on highways.Police assured that they will intensify efforts to curb illegal cattle transportation in the region. The community mourns the loss of Kripasindhu while hoping for Lambodhar’s recovery
