The death toll in the major road accident near Kaziranga National Park in Assam's Golaghat district has risen to 26, while 20 people were injured following a head-on collision between a minibus and a container truck on Friday.
The accident occurred at Rangajan near Hathikuli Tea Estate in the Kohora range along National Highway 715. The collision caused extensive damage to the passenger vehicle, with several occupants trapped inside.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
At least 26 people killed in the accident.
20 people injured.
Minibus collided head-on with a container truck.
Accident occurred at Rangajan on National Highway 715.
Women, children and college students were among the deceased.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed grief. Minister Atul Bora reached the accident site.
According to officials, women, children and college students were among those killed. Several injured passengers were taken to Kohora Model Hospital, while critically injured people were referred to Jorhat Medical College and Hospital for further treatment.
Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and said the tragedy had shaken the state. He said ensuring proper medical treatment for the injured was the government's immediate priority.
State Cabinet Minister Atul Bora reached the accident site and personally oversaw relief arrangements.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The tragic accident has highlighted the serious road-safety risks associated with collisions involving passenger vehicles and heavy commercial trucks. The loss of lives, including students, has deeply affected the region and raised questions about compliance with traffic regulations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the accident and announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 2 lakh for the family of each deceased person and Rs. 50,000 for each injured person.
Police have initiated an investigation to establish the circumstances leading to the collision. Questions concerning possible traffic violations and overspeeding are also expected to be examined.
