An elderly farmer lost his life on Friday morning after his motorcycle was rammed by a speeding tractor near the Luta Railway Overbridge under Katkamdag police station limits, triggering protests by local residents demanding justice and compensation.
The deceased has been identified as Vasudev Mahto (65), a resident of Pakrar village in Katkamdag block. He was on his way to Hazaribag town to sell vegetables when the accident occurred.
Tractor driver flees, victim dies on the spot
According to police, the tractor struck Mahto’s bike with force, leaving him critically injured. He died at the scene before medical help could arrive. The tractor driver fled immediately after the incident, abandoning the vehicle.
Locals rushed to the spot soon after the accident and found Mahto lying on the road. Angered by the incident, residents gathered in large numbers and blocked the road, demanding the immediate arrest of the driver and compensation for the bereaved family.
Road blockade lifted after official assurance
Pramod Kumar Rai, officer-in-charge of Katkamdag police station, reached the spot along with other officials to control the situation. After discussions and assurances from the administration, the protesters dispersed and traffic movement was restored.
“We have seized the tractor involved in the accident, and efforts are underway to trace and arrest the driver who fled the spot,” Rai said.
Renewed concern over rural road safety
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over rash driving and lack of enforcement on rural and semi-urban roads, where farmers frequently travel early in the morning to sell produce.
Residents have urged authorities to ensure stricter checks on heavy vehicles and faster compensation for families of accident victims, particularly those dependent on agriculture for livelihood.
Police said further legal action will be taken once the driver is apprehended.