Calf killed days after fatal crash raises fresh safety concerns on NH-15 in Assam's Tinsukia

A three-day-old calf was run over and killed by passing vehicles early on Thursday, April 23, near Lajum village in Kakopathar, Tinsukia, just metres from the site of a recent fatal crash that claimed two young lives.

 

The incident occurred on a straight stretch of National Highway 15, where residents say speeding vehicles routinely pass without slowing. The calf’s owner, visibly shaken, was seen carrying the carcass away for burial. Witnesses said the animal’s mother remained at the spot, crying beside its body.

 

The area is still recovering from a fatal collision late on April 17, when two young men — Pranajit Das of Kakopathar and Shashank Moran of Teji village — were killed after a speeding Bolero allegedly rammed into them. The victims had been sitting on a stationary motorcycle by the roadside when the vehicle struck. Police later detained the driver and seized the vehicle, with preliminary reports indicating alcohol consumption.

 

The earlier crash triggered protests in the locality, with residents blocking the highway, burning tyres and demanding stricter enforcement, a permanent traffic outpost and compensation for the victims’ families.

 

Locals say repeated incidents point to a pattern of reckless driving along this stretch, citing overspeeding, drunk driving and mobile phone use behind the wheel. Many claim vehicles often fail to brake, turning the highway into a constant hazard.

 

Residents have long raised concerns about the road’s design, describing it as wide and straight, encouraging high speeds, particularly at night. Following the latest incident, calls for stronger monitoring, speed restrictions and improved safety infrastructure have intensified.

 

Authorities are being urged to step up patrolling, enforce drink-driving laws and address distracted driving to prevent further accidents on this key route linking Upper Assam.