At least 24 people were killed and 11 others injured in a devastating collision between a passenger bus and a container truck in the northeastern Indian state of Assam on Friday. The accident occurred near the famed Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Accident Details

According to eyewitnesses and local authorities, one of the two vehicles was reportedly speeding at the time of the crash. Rescue operations were launched immediately by locals and police following the collision. The injured were rushed to Jorhat Medical College and Hospital for treatment. Authorities confirmed that three children were among those killed in the accident.

College Students Among Victims

Assam's Rural Development Minister Atul Bora stated that several college students are among the deceased, although their identities have not yet been released. "According to eyewitness accounts, one of the two vehicles was moving at excessive speed at the time of the accident. However, the actual cause will only be known after an investigation," Bora said.

Alarming Road Safety Record

India records thousands of road accident fatalities every year. Official statistics show that 172,000 people died in road accidents across the country in 2023. The Kaziranga National Park area, which sees heavy traffic from tourists and local commuters, has been a site of recurring accidents.

Investigation and Response

The district administration and police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Local health officials confirmed that necessary medical arrangements have been made for the injured. The state's chief minister has assured support to the families of the deceased.