14 killed 27 injured: Assam Police Issues SOP for Picnic Enthusiasts Following Tragic Road Mishap

In the wake of a devastating road mishap that claimed the lives of at least 14 people and left 27 others severely injured, the Assam Police has swiftly responded by issuing a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for picnic enthusiasts in the state.

The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday when a bus carrying 45 passengers, en route to Tinsukia’s Tilinga Mandir, collided with a coal-laden Tipper or dumper truck in Dergaon. The accident has been deemed one of the worst and deadliest in the history of Assam.

The initial police investigation revealed that the picnic party had commenced their journey at 3 am, and tragedy struck just as they were approaching their destination. A head-on collision with a truck coming from Margherita resulted in the loss of multiple lives and serious injuries to several others.

In response to the incident, the Assam Police has outlined a set of guidelines to regulate the movement and activities of picnic parties, especially during the period from November to March when large numbers of such events are organised.

The key points of the SOP include:

1. Avoid Overcrowding: Ensuring there is no overcrowding in vehicles used for picnics.

2. Ban on Illicit Liquor: Strict prohibition on the trading of illicit liquor in or around picnic spots.

3. Driver Sobriety: Prohibiting drivers from consuming any intoxicants before operating vehicles.

4. Noise Control: No loud music permitted on vehicles during the journey.

5. Raids on Dhaba: Continuous police raids on roadside dhabas where illicit liquors are sold.

6. Time Restrictions: Restricting movement of picnic parties before sunrise and after sunset.

7. Informing Police: Mandatory notification to the local police station about the origin and destination of travel.

8.Surveillance Groups: Deployment of surveillance groups, in coordination with Village Defence Parties (VDPs), in every picnic spot to detect illicit or illegal activities.

9. Lighting Facilities: Provision of sufficient lighting in and around vulnerable picnic spots.

10. Parking Arrangements: Designating adequate parking areas in every picnic spot.

11. Driver Briefing: Ensuring bus drivers transporting picnic parties are properly briefed and wear appropriate footwear.

12. Fog Precautions: Emphasizing that movement should be avoided during foggy conditions.

While these guidelines are suggestive, the Assam Police, in collaboration with the District Transport Office (DTO) and other enforcement agencies, aims to implement them rigorously to prevent accidents and safeguard human lives during the festive picnic season. The tragic incident has prompted a reevaluation of safety measures to ensure the well-being of all picnic enthusiasts in the state.