Shillong: A tragic accident claimed the life of a youth heading to the Cherry Blossom Festival at Madan Kurkalang in Umroi on Friday. The accident occurred around 5:30 pm near the ICAR complex when the bike, ridden by Hoderfield Rymbui from Nongtalang village in West Jaintia Hills, was struck by a police escort vehicle leading a VIP convoy.
A female pillion rider who sustained injuries was immediately rushed to Holy Cross Hospital in Umsaw for medical treatment.
The incident, which occurred on the first day of the Cherry Blossom Festival, caused widespread frustration among attendees. A significant traffic jam developed as thousands of ticket-holding revelers crowded the road leading to the festival site. The accident has sparked public criticism over VIP culture, with citizens demanding an end to practices that prioritize VIP movement over public safety.
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