Tragic accident on Chümoukedima bypass claims two lives; Road closure imposed

Two college students lost their lives and two others were seriously injured when a Bolero vehicle veered off the Chümoukedima bypass road at around 12:30 am on Thursday, May 15.

According to initial reports, the vehicle had four occupants at the time of the accident. Two died at the scene, while the remaining two were rushed to the Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research (CIHSR), Chümoukedima. The condition of one of the injured is reported to be critical.

In response to the tragedy, the Chümoukedima Village Youth Society (CVYS) has reiterated its existing resolution regarding the Old Village bypass road and imposed an immediate prohibition on all vehicular movement along the stretch. Only vehicles involved in ongoing construction work and those belonging to landowners in the area are exempted, the CVYS stated.

The bypass road will be opened to the public only in the event of a blockage on National Highway-29, it added.

Highlighting that the restriction was imposed in the interest of public safety, the CVYS appealed for the public’s cooperation and warned that any violation of the directive will be dealt with firmly. “Let us all remain vigilant and work together to prevent further tragedies,” the society urged.

The CVYS also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased and wished a swift and full recovery to the injured. It further expressed appreciation to everyone who rendered selfless service during the rescue operation, including the Chümoukedima Traffic Police, the State Disaster Response Team, local leaders, and youth volunteers who assisted at the scene.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner of Chümoukedima has issued a notification stating that due to ongoing road construction along the route from Chümoukedima Town (Old Check Gate) to New Chümoukedima via Old Chümoukedima Village, all vehicular movement on this stretch will remain temporarily restricted until the work is completed. Only vehicles directly engaged in the construction are permitted.

The public has been advised to take note of the restriction and plan their travel accordingly. The district administration has expressed regret for the inconvenience caused.

MT