A devastating road accident in the Lakshmipur area of Kailashahar subdivision, Unakoti district, left an auto-rickshaw driver critically injured on Wednesday morning, raising fresh concerns over road safety in the region.

According to local sources, Kutan Malakar was cleaning his auto-rickshaw beside the road when a speeding vehicle travelling from the Tilabazar side reportedly lost control and rammed into him and his vehicle. The force of the collision was so intense that the auto-rickshaw was hurled into a nearby roadside drain, causing severe injuries to Malakar.

Hearing the impact, local residents rushed to the scene and rescued the injured driver. He was immediately taken to Unakoti District Hospital, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.

Witnesses alleged that the driver responsible for the accident attempted to flee after the collision. However, local residents intercepted and detained him before he could escape. Police personnel from Kailashahar Police Station soon arrived at the spot, brought the situation under control, and took the accused driver into custody.

Police officials stated that the driver of the vehicle involved in the accident also sustained injuries and was admitted to a hospital for treatment.

A case has been registered at Kailashahar Police Station, and an investigation is underway. Preliminary inquiries indicate that overspeeding and negligent driving may have been the primary factors behind the accident.

The incident has sparked concern among residents, who have called on the authorities to implement stricter traffic regulations and stronger road safety measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.