Seven killed in Lilong road mishap
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 06: At least seven persons, including a female, were killed while one is in critical condition after the Maruti Van they were travelling on had a head-on collision with a Tata truck near Lilong Terapokpi, under Lilong police station along National Highway 39 this evening.

According to local eye witnesses, the mishap took place at around 7 pm and seconds after the collision the Maruti Van caught fire charring some of the victims beyond recognition.

Rescuers trying to extract trapped bodies from the van

The flame reportedly reached to a height of about 15-20 feet.

While six died on the spot, one of the two rushed to RIMS Hospital about 50 minutes succumbed to the injuries.

Condition of the other survivor is stated to be critical with blood oozing from the ear owing to suspected head injuries.

The individual subsequently shifted to JN Hospital has been identified as Jiten of Moirang while the person who passed away at RIMS Hospital is said to be one S Tomei Meitei (44) of Kakching Wairi Sabal Leikai.

Recounting the incident, the eyewitnesses maintained that the Maruti Van was heading towards Thoubal side while the truck, loaded with sand, was coming from the opposite direction.

The locals rushed to the spot and managed to douse the blaze but proved too late for most of the vehicle occupants.

The victims seemed to be returning after a marriage ceremony on account of the dresses they were wearing.

Till the time this report was filed identity of two victims who died on the spot could be established.

The deceased, both hailing from Kakching Thoyai leikai have been identified as Mayanglambam Nandabir and Nongmaithem Gourachandra.

Registration number of the Maruti Van is MN01K-161 and the truck MN05/2388 .