A serious road accident on National Highway 8 near Dolubari Market under Ambassa sub-division on Thursday afternoon led to dramatic rescue efforts, severe traffic congestion, and widespread criticism of the local administration and police over their delayed response.

The incident occurred around 12 noon when a stone-loaded truck bearing registration number TR-06C-1763, travelling towards Agartala, reportedly lost control and overturned onto a roadside shop located below the highway level. The driver, identified as Rahim Uddin, became trapped inside the wrecked vehicle.

Soon after hearing the crash, local residents and youths rushed to the scene and immediately started rescue operations. Fire and Emergency Service personnel from Ambassa also arrived quickly and joined the effort. However, rescuers faced major difficulties because of the heavy load of stones carried by the truck, making it impossible to free the driver initially.

As the situation became critical, heavy machinery was urgently required to lift the overturned vehicle. Locals alleged that despite the seriousness of the accident, there was no prompt action from the sub-divisional administration or disaster management authorities. Following intervention by the Dhalai District Magistrate, five excavators were eventually deployed to the site to help lift the truck.

Medical teams also reached the scene while the rescue operation was underway. At one stage, half of the driver’s body remained trapped inside the vehicle, and doctors provided him with emergency medical assistance on the spot. Fire service personnel later used hydraulic cutters to cut through sections of the truck. After nearly one and a half hours of continuous efforts, rescuers successfully pulled the driver out alive. He was later shifted to Dhalai District Hospital for treatment.

The accident triggered a massive traffic jam along the national highway. Residents expressed strong resentment over the absence of senior traffic officials and administrative officers during the crucial initial period. According to eyewitnesses, police arrived nearly an hour after the accident despite fire service vehicles passing the nearby Ambassa Police Station with sirens on.

Locals further claimed that the incident once again exposed the inefficiency and lack of preparedness of the administration and disaster management department, recalling a similar accident that took place in Teliamura last year. Questions were also raised regarding the absence of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate even though the accident site was reportedly close to the SDM office.

Despite the criticism directed at the administration, local youths and fire service personnel earned widespread praise for their courage, quick response, and relentless efforts that ultimately saved the driver’s life.