Kohima: At least five women lost their lives in a tragic road accident involving a private bus at 10th Mile Road, Kohima, on Saturday night.
According to the police, the accident occurred at around 8:10 pm under the jurisdiction of Chiephobozou Police Station. The bus, bearing registration number NL-07B-0510, was carrying 32 passengers, all members of the Chümoukedima Ao Baptist Church, when it overturned at the location.
Upon receiving information, a joint team comprising the District Administration, Chiephobozou Police, and Kohima Traffic Police rushed to the spot to assess the situation and initiate rescue and relief operations.
Preliminary investigation has ruled out rash or drunken driving as the cause of the accident. Officials suspect a mechanical failure may have led to the mishap. A detailed technical examination of the vehicle is currently underway.
Five female passengers succumbed to their injuries and were declared dead at the spot. The bodies were retrieved from the accident site and, after completion of all necessary legal formalities, were handed over to their respective families.
The remaining passengers sustained minor injuries and were shifted to the Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research (CIHSR), Dimapur, for medical treatment.
Kohima Police acknowledged and appreciated the prompt assistance provided by volunteers from the Northern Angami Youth Organisation (NAYO) and Tsiesema Village youths, who played a crucial role in the rescue and relief efforts.
Meanwhile, Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio expressed profound sorrow over the tragic incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Condoling the untimely demise of members of the Chümoukedima Ao Baptist Church, the Chief Minister announced ex-gratia assistance of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of the deceased.
He also announced financial assistance of Rs 50,000 each for those seriously injured and wished them a speedy recovery.
Further investigation into the exact cause of the accident is in progress.