Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 4
Three Nagaland State Transport (NST) bus accidents have occurred between 2023 and the present date, claiming the lives of two passengers and leaving 46 others injured, the state Assembly was informed.
Replying to a starred question tabled by MLA A Nyamnyei Konyak during the ninth session of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly on September 3, Health and Family Welfare Minister P. Paiwang Konyak stated that ex-gratia relief has been paid to the families of the deceased, while financial assistance was extended to all injured passengers.
The minister informed the House that two of the three accidents were triggered by mechanical failure. Referring to the latest mishap that took place on July 9, 2026, the minister said an inquiry committee has been constituted to ascertain the exact cause of the accident, and its findings are currently awaited. The driver involved in the July 9 incident has been placed under suspension pending the probe.
Highlighting remedial measures initiated by the transport department to prevent recurrent mishaps, Konyak stated that authorities have stepped up regular surveillance of drivers using breathalyzers to screen for alcohol and substance abuse.
In addition, the department has mandated routine fitness and roadworthiness inspections of the fleet by mechanics, alongside intensified vigilance by enforcement teams to curb rash driving and passenger overloading. Controlling officers have also been directed to periodically monitor the on-duty performance and conduct of drivers and conductors under their respective establishments.
