Nine Injured in Assam Auto-Motorcycle Collision, Five Critical in Sribhumi District
A severe head-on collision between an autorickshaw and a motorcycle has left at least nine people injured, with five of them in critical condition, in Assam's Sribhumi district. The accident occurred on Thursday evening along the Lowairpoa–Kanmun road near Kalacherra, under the jurisdiction of the Bazaricherra police station.
Details of the Collision and Rescue Efforts
The collision took place on a narrow and hazardous stretch of road, prompting immediate response from local residents who rushed to assist with rescue operations. According to police reports, the autorickshaw was traveling from Bazaricherra towards Katamoni, while the motorcycle was coming from the opposite direction from Ichabil when the two vehicles collided violently.
Both vehicles sustained significant damage in the impact, highlighting the severity of the crash. The injured were initially transported to the Bazaricherra primary health centre for emergency treatment.
Critical Injuries and Hospital Transfers
Among those critically injured were motorcycle rider Lalbabu Lohar, aged 26, and pillion rider Pradip Nunia, both of whom sustained grievous injuries. The autorickshaw driver, identified as Pritam Paul (23), along with six passengers, also suffered various injuries in the crash.
As their conditions deteriorated, the critically wounded were transferred to Makunda Christian Leprosy and General Hospital for more advanced care. Subsequently, Lalbabu Lohar and Pradip Nunia were referred to Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) due to the severity of their injuries.
On Friday, three additional autorickshaw passengers were shifted to SMCH after their health worsened, while other less severely injured individuals were discharged following treatment.
Police Investigation and Community Impact
Police authorities reached the accident site promptly after the incident, seizing both vehicles and launching a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Officials also visited the hospital to assess the condition of the injured and gather statements.
The incident has cast a profound shadow over the local community, particularly as five members of a single family from Katamoni were among those injured in the crash. The injured motorcyclists are residents of the Ichabil tea estate, adding to the personal tragedy affecting multiple families in the region.
Road Safety Concerns in Assam
This accident underscores ongoing concerns about road safety in Assam, particularly on narrow and risky stretches like the Lowairpoa–Kanmun road where this collision occurred. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of cautious driving and improved infrastructure to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Local authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the collision while the community rallies around the injured and their families during this difficult time.
