Panic spread across the Dolubari area of Ambassa sub-division on Thursday after a stone-laden dumper truck overturned on a national highway, trapping the driver inside the cabin for nearly two hours and triggering serious concerns over the delayed response of the sub-division disaster management authorities.
The accident occurred near the office of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) at Dolubari when the dumper reportedly lost control and overturned onto a roadside shop. The impact of the crash created chaos in the area, with local residents rushing to the spot to assist in rescue efforts.
The driver of the vehicle, identified as Rahim Uddin, a resident of Silchar, became severely trapped inside the crushed cabin, pinned against the steering wheel. Eyewitnesses said the injured driver cried out in pain for a long period while rescue attempts continued.
The incident immediately reminded many residents of last year’s tragic Chakmaghat accident in Teliamura, where lorry driver Mihirlal Debnath lost his life after an alleged delay in rescue operations by the Disaster Management team. Locals feared a similar tragedy could unfold in Ambassa as the driver remained trapped for hours.
Residents alleged that despite the accident occurring close to the SDM office, no dedicated disaster response team was visible at the site even an hour after the mishap. The delay sparked anger among local people, who questioned the preparedness of the administration in handling emergency situations.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Samarjit Debbarma later told reporters that the administration had received information about the accident and reached the spot. However, locals claimed the response was not timely enough considering the seriousness of the incident.
After nearly two hours of continuous effort, personnel from the fire service, assisted by local residents, managed to rescue the injured driver from the overturned vehicle. He was immediately shifted to Dhalai District Hospital for treatment.
Residents also pointed to the dangerous condition of the highway stretch between Dolubari bridge and the market area. They said the road is naturally narrow, with deep ditches on both sides, making it risky for heavy vehicles and increasing the possibility of accidents.
