Arunachal: Vehicle plunges into gorge near Mayodia Pass, 4 dead

A devastating accident near Mayodia Pass in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lower Dibang Valley has claimed the lives of four individuals from Assam, leaving two critically injured. 

The incident occurred early Monday morning when a Scorpio vehicle, carrying six passengers, lost control and plunged over 100 meters down a steep cliff.

The victims have been identified as members of two families from Numaligarh’s Auguri Chapori in Assam’s Golaghat district. Among the deceased are Suraj Chetry, Meena Chetry, Ranjit Chetry, and the driver, Manoj Chetry. 

The two survivors, Harimaya Chetry and 9-year-old Rasni Chetry were rescued from the wreckage and rushed to Dibrugarh Medical College for advanced medical care.

Also Read: Arunachal: Scorpio plunges off hill in Roing, one dead, 2 including minor rescued while 3 others missing

The accident took place around 6:30 PM on January 26. SP of Lower Dibang Valley, Ringu Ngupok, confirmed the casualties, stating, “All six individuals belonged to the same family. Out of them, three were female, and three were male. Tragically, four died on the spot, while two females were rescued alive and are receiving treatment.”

Preliminary investigations suggest the driver may have been under the influence of alcohol, raising concerns about reckless driving as a potential cause of the mishap.

The vehicle was en route to the picturesque Mayodia Pass when it veered off the treacherous road. Rescue teams, supported by local residents, worked tirelessly to retrieve the victims from the crash site.

Authorities have expressed their condolences to the grieving families and emphasized the need for stricter road safety measures in the region, particularly during the winter season when the roads become perilously slippery.

This tragic accident highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring safe travel in Arunachal Pradesh’s hilly terrains, which are known for their breathtaking beauty but also pose significant risks to motorists.