Bhubaneswar, Jan 3: Public transport safety came under sharp focus in the Odisha capital on Saturday after two 'Ama Buses' were involved in two separate accidents at the same location -- Rupali Square -- within a single day, triggering public outrage and raising questions over traffic management and driver conduct.

The first incident took place earlier in the day when an Ama Bus operating on Route No. 82 rammed into an auto-rickshaw that was reportedly stationary amid traffic congestion at Rupali Square. The impact proved fatal for the auto driver, who died on the spot. Two schoolchildren travelling in the auto sustained serious injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment.

Hours later, the same bus route was involved in another accident at the same junction. In the afternoon, an Ama Bus allegedly hit a scooter from behind, leading to chaos at the busy traffic intersection. Though the scooter rider escaped with injuries, the incident sparked anger among commuters and local residents already shaken by the morning fatality.

Eyewitnesses said tempers flared quickly as crowds gathered at the spot. The bus driver was reportedly dragged out of the vehicle and assaulted by members of the public before police intervened. Personnel from Saheed Nagar police station reached the scene promptly and rescued the driver from the crowd, restoring order.

The twin incidents led to traffic disruption and visible damage to the bus, with sections of the vehicle vandalised by angry protesters. Commuters expressed frustration over what they described as repeated negligence and poor oversight of city bus operations.

The accidents occurred during the Road Safety Week, with the administration urging citizens to follow traffic rules and exercise caution on the roads. The involvement of a city-run bus service in two accidents at the same junction within hours has, however, intensified scrutiny of enforcement, driver training, and monitoring mechanisms.

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Police said separate cases have been registered in connection with both incidents and investigations are underway to ascertain the exact sequence of events and responsibility. Traffic officials are also expected to review safety arrangements and congestion management at Rupali Square, one of Bhubaneswar’s busiest intersections.