23 killed in minibus and truck collision near Kaziranga National Park
At least 20 people were injured in the head-on crash on National Highway 715 in Assam.
At least 23 people died and 20 others were injured after a minibus and a container truck collided head-on near Kaziranga National Park on Friday, according to The Federal.
The accident occurred at Rangajan on National Highway 715 in the Kohora range, near Hathikuli Tea Estate.
The minibus was travelling from Jorhat to Nagaon, while the container truck was heading towards Upper Assam, police said.
An Executive Magistrate of Golaghat district told reporters that doctors confirmed 23 deaths and that the identities of the deceased are being ascertained.
The officer noted that two of the dead were women and several were college students returning from classes.
Police suspect the minibus was travelling at a very high speed, violating restrictions near the park, and that the driver lost control before hitting the truck.
Golaghat Senior Superintendent of Police Swapnaneel Deka said more than 35 passengers were believed to be in the bus.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he was deeply distressed by the accident and stated that the priority is ensuring the injured receive medical care.
Most critically injured passengers were referred to hospitals in Bokakhat, Golaghat, and Jorhat Medical College and Hospital.