Tragic Bihu Celebration Turns Deadly: Three Women Killed in Guwahati Road Accident

Guwahati, April 27, 2026 — A joyous Rongali Bihu celebration turned into a nightmare early Sunday morning when a speeding car crashed into a parked truck in Narengi, claiming the lives of three women. The driver fled the scene, leaving behind a community in shock and authorities scrambling to piece together the events leading to the fatal accident.

The Crash: What Happened?

According to police reports, the accident occurred around 2:30 AM on Sunday near the Narengi area of Guwahati. The vehicle, a white sedan, was traveling at high speed when it struck a stationary truck parked on the side of the road. The impact was so severe that the car was nearly flattened, trapping the occupants inside. All three women—identified as residents of Guwahati—were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities have been withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Witnesses at the scene reported hearing a loud crash followed by screams. By the time locals and emergency responders arrived, the driver had already fled. “The car was completely mangled,” said a local shopkeeper who rushed to the scene. “It was clear no one could have survived that kind of impact.”

Driver on the Run: A Frantic Search

Assam Police have launched a statewide manhunt for the driver, whose identity remains unknown. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby cameras and have appealed to the public for any information that could lead to the driver’s arrest. “This is a hit-and-run case, and we are treating it with the utmost seriousness,” said a senior police official. “We urge anyone with information to come forward immediately.”

The truck driver, who was not injured in the crash, told police he had parked his vehicle on the side of the road due to mechanical issues. He expressed shock at the incident, stating he had no prior warning of the oncoming car.

Bihu Celebrations Overshadowed by Tragedy

The accident occurred just hours after Guwahati’s vibrant Rongali Bihu celebrations, which mark the Assamese Latest Year and the arrival of spring. The festival, known for its music, dance, and feasting, had drawn large crowds across the city, including at local colleges and cultural centers. Narengi, a residential and educational hub in eastern Guwahati, had been particularly lively, with institutions like Narangi Anchalik Mahavidyalaya hosting Bihu events on Saturday.

In the wake of the tragedy, many in the community are questioning whether the driver may have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While police have not confirmed this, they have not ruled it out as a possible factor in the crash. “Bihu is a time of celebration, but it’s similarly a time when people need to be responsible,” said a local resident. “This shouldn’t have happened.”

Outpouring of Grief and Support

The news of the accident has sent shockwaves through Guwahati, with many taking to social media to express their grief. Comedian Manhar Seth, who was performing in Kolkata at the time, dedicated his display to the victims, calling the incident “heartbreaking” and urging people to drive safely. “No celebration is worth a life,” Seth wrote in a post following the show.

Local leaders and organizations have also stepped forward to offer support to the families of the victims. The Assam government has announced compensation for the families, though the amount has not yet been disclosed. Meanwhile, road safety advocates are using the tragedy to renew calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, particularly during festival seasons.

Road Safety in Focus: A Growing Concern

This incident is the latest in a string of fatal road accidents in Assam, raising concerns about road safety in the state. According to data from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Assam recorded over 6,000 road accidents in 2025, resulting in more than 2,500 deaths. Many of these accidents are attributed to speeding, drunk driving, and poor road conditions.

In response to the rising number of accidents, the Assam government has introduced several measures in recent years, including the installation of speed cameras, stricter penalties for traffic violations, and public awareness campaigns. However, critics argue that enforcement remains lax, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas like Narengi.

Key Takeaways

• Three women were killed early Sunday morning when their car collided with a parked truck in Narengi, Guwahati.
• The driver fled the scene, and police have launched a manhunt to locate and apprehend the individual.
• The accident occurred hours after Rongali Bihu celebrations, raising questions about potential drunk driving.
• Local and national figures, including comedian Manhar Seth, have expressed grief and called for safer driving practices.
• Road safety advocates are renewing calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws in Assam.

What Happens Next?

As the investigation into the crash continues, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The truck driver has been cooperating with police, but the focus remains on locating the fleeing driver. Meanwhile, the families of the victims are preparing for funeral arrangements, with support pouring in from across the community.

For Guwahati, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of responsible behavior, especially during times of celebration. As one local resident put it, “Bihu is about joy, but it’s also about respect—for life, for each other, and for the rules that keep us safe.”

FAQ

What is Rongali Bihu?

Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, is the Assamese New Year festival celebrated in mid-April. It marks the beginning of the Assamese calendar year and the arrival of spring. The festival is characterized by traditional music, dance (such as the Bihu dance), feasting, and cultural events.

What are the penalties for hit-and-run cases in India?

Under Indian law, hit-and-run cases are treated as serious offenses. If convicted, the driver can face imprisonment for up to 10 years and a fine of up to ₹7 lakh (approximately $8,400), as per the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. The severity of the penalty depends on factors such as the driver’s intent, prior record, and whether the accident resulted in fatalities.

How can I report information about the fleeing driver?

Anyone with information about the driver or the accident is urged to contact the Guwahati City Police at their official helpline or visit the nearest police station. Authorities have assured that all tips will be kept confidential.