In the past 24 hours, five separate road accidents across Assam have claimed at least six lives, coinciding with Durga Puja travel and festivities. The tragic incidents have cast a shadow over the celebrations, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety in the state.
Fatal Accidents Across Assam
Changsari, Kamrup District
In Changsari, Kamrup district, a woman was killed on the spot after the motorcycle she was pillion riding collided with a truck. The rider sustained serious injuries. The accident occurred on Thursday, shocking locals who witnessed the horrific crash.
Golaghat
Meanwhile, in Golaghat, another woman died and three others were injured when the vehicle they were traveling in lost control and met with an accident. The accident occurred on Thursday.
Silchar
In Silchar, angry scenes unfolded early Thursday morning following a fatal accident at Meherpur. A government CPWD vehicle allegedly hit two pedestrians before ramming into a parked truck, killing a man identified as Sushil Das. The incident enraged local residents who torched the government vehicle and staged a road blockade, disrupting traffic for hours on one of the town’s main routes. Top officials, including the Cachar Superintendent of Police and Additional SP, rushed to the site and managed to bring the situation under control.
Teok, Jorhat District
Late Wednesday night, tragedy struck in Jorhat district’s Teok, where Satyendra Malakar, Officer-in-Charge of Bhogamukh Police Station, died in a road accident. The police vehicle he was traveling in, along with five others, met with an accident near Morijaji while en route to Banai. Among the injured are Sub-Inspector Moromi Nath, one commando, two constables, and a local civilian, Pawan Gogoi. All were rushed to Teok Primary Health Centre and later referred to Jorhat Medical College and Hospital (JMCH), where Officer Malakar was declared dead.
Dibrugarh
In Dibrugarh, two people died on the spot and another, a teenaged girl, succumbed to her injuries after the car they were traveling in fell into a roadside ditch. The accident happened this morning near Sessa Maidam in Dibrugarh, Assam. According to reports, the car lost control and veered off the four-lane National Highway, plunging into the roadside ditch. The identities of the deceased are yet to be ascertained.
Contributing Factors
Several factors are believed to have contributed to these accidents:
- Increased Traffic: Durga Puja festivities lead to higher volumes of traffic on the roads, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Weather Conditions: Heavy rainfall in some areas may have made roads slippery and visibility poor.
- Driver Fatigue: Long-distance travel during the festive season can lead to driver fatigue, impairing reaction times.
- Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads and inadequate signage can contribute to accidents.
Public Reaction and Government Response
The series of accidents has sparked outrage among the public. In Silchar, residents protested by blocking roads and setting fire to the government vehicle involved in the accident. Authorities have assured that investigations are underway and that steps will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
In response to the increasing number of accidents, the Assam government has announced plans to improve road infrastructure and enhance traffic safety measures. These include the widening of National Highway 715 and the implementation of stricter traffic regulations during peak festive seasons.
Safety Tips for Travelers
As the festive season continues, authorities urge travelers to adhere to the following safety guidelines:
- Avoid Overloading Vehicles: Ensure that vehicles are not overloaded, as this can affect stability and braking.
- Use Seat Belts and Helmets: Always wear seat belts in cars and helmets on two-wheelers.
- Adhere to Speed Limits: Observe speed limits and adjust speed according to road and weather conditions.
- Avoid Alcohol Consumption: Do not drink and drive; alcohol impairs judgment and reaction times.
- Rest Adequately: Ensure drivers are well-rested before embarking on long journeys.
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The recent spate of Assam road accidents highlights the urgent need for road safety, especially during festive seasons. While the celebrations bring joy to many, it is crucial to prioritize safety to prevent further tragedies. Authorities and the public must work together to ensure safer roads for all