Guwahati/Sonapur, August 31, 2026 — The death toll in a tragic head-on collision between a passenger Traveller and a truck on National Highway 27 near Sonapur in Assam’s Kamrup Metropolitan district has risen to eight, according to local reports.
Six people died at the scene of the accident, which occurred on Sunday evening (August 30) at Tetelia near Sonapur (also reported in the Khetri area). Two more victims succumbed to their injuries at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Guwahati. Four others remain under treatment at the hospital.
The Traveller, carrying passengers and travelling towards Guwahati (reportedly from the Nagaon direction), lost control after encountering a large pothole on the severely damaged stretch of the highway. It crossed the road divider and crashed into an oncoming truck. No injuries were reported among those in the truck.
Police confirmed that all 14 people in the minibus, including the driver and helper, were affected. Initial reports had put the on-spot deaths at four (including a woman) or six, with several injured rushed first to Sonapur Civil Hospital before referral to GMCH. Identities of some of the deceased have begun to emerge in local coverage, including residents from areas such as Kapata Kara and Kahikuchi.
Footage from the scene shows the front of the white Traveller completely mangled, with the vehicle still positioned beside the truck amid traffic cones and onlookers. The accident caused significant traffic disruption on the highway.
Local residents have expressed strong anger over the poor condition of NH-27, citing numerous large potholes as a major contributing factor. Protests were reported at the site, with criticism directed at authorities for inadequate maintenance despite toll collection. Officials, including local MLA Tapan Das, visited the location and appealed for calm. Subsequent reports noted other vehicles becoming stuck in potholes on the same stretch.
Police from the Khetri/Sonapur station and Guwahati traffic authorities are investigating the incident. Guwahati Police Additional Deputy Commissioner (Traffic) Safiqul Hussain noted that the bus driver allegedly lost control after the vehicle hit a large pothole, and the claim is under examination.
The tragedy has once again highlighted ongoing concerns about road safety and the state of national highways in the region. Further updates on the condition of the injured and official statements are expected.