A truck driver was killed in a tragic road accident on National Highway 27 near N Leikul, close to Jatinga, in Assam’s Dima Hasao district on Friday afternoon, police said.
The deceased has been identified as Amir Hussein, a resident of Barpeta district. The incident occurred when the truck driver had reportedly stopped his vehicle along the roadside and stepped down, unaware that the vehicle was not properly secured.
Truck rolled forward after halt
According to police officials, the truck began moving on its own moments after Hussein got down from the vehicle. On noticing this, he rushed back and attempted to climb onto the moving truck to apply the brakes.
During the attempt, he reportedly lost his balance and fell onto the road. The truck ran over him, killing him on the spot, eyewitnesses said.
Police rush to spot, body sent for autopsy
Police from the local outpost reached the scene soon after receiving information about the accident. The body was later sent to Haflong Civil Hospital for post-mortem examination.
Officials said preliminary findings indicate that the truck may not have been properly secured after being parked, which could have led to the vehicle rolling forward.
Safety concerns on hilly highways
The incident has once again highlighted the dangers faced by heavy vehicle drivers, especially on highways passing through hilly and forested terrain such as Dima Hasao district. Improper parking, brake failure, or slight negligence can prove fatal in such areas.
Police said a detailed investigation is underway to determine whether mechanical failure or human error caused the accident. Necessary legal procedures have been initiated.
Local residents and fellow drivers expressed grief over the incident and urged authorities to increase awareness among commercial vehicle drivers about safety measures, particularly the importance of securing vehicles properly while halting on highways