KATHMANDU: Five people were killed on the spot when a truck overturned while traveling on the Hulaki Highway in Sunsari on Thursday morning.

The truck, bearing registration number 1 Kha 4541, was transporting marble from Biratnagar when it lost control and tipped over in Phulchowk, Bhokraha Narsingh Rural Municipality.

The workers riding atop the marble load were crushed, resulting in instant fatalities.

Authorities say the incident highlights negligence of basic safety measures during the transport of heavy materials.

Two others, including the truck driver, sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment at Birat Teaching Hospital in Biratnagar.

The identities of the deceased have not yet been confirmed.

Police have confirmed that the victims were traveling on the marble load on the truck’s deck when the accident occurred.