The Assam government has announced ₹5 lakh in ex-gratia for the families of seven people killed in a crash on National Highway 27 at Khetri, alongside free hospital treatment for the injured.
Police and local accounts blame severe potholes and poor maintenance for the fatal accident, leading to a police investigation into official negligence. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that State Chief Secretary Ravi Kota is coordinating with the NHAI Chairman, who promised a probe into responsible contractors and urgent road repairs.
The tragedy triggered widespread protests across Assam:
- Sonapur: Residents forced the suspension of toll collection at Nazirakhat Toll Plaza until repairs are completed.
- Raha: Protesters briefly blocked NH-27, demanding completed service lanes and proper drainage.
- Jorhat: Demonstrators burned an effigy of the NHAI over maintenance failures.
While public anger mounts to waive highway tolls, CM Sarma noted that central investments in major expansion projects are ongoing, but stressed that immediate road repairs remain the top priority.
Source: The Assam Tribune
