A tragic day unfolded in Thoubal district on Wednesday as two separate road accidents claimed two lives and left several others injured. Both incidents occurred under the jurisdiction of Thoubal Police Station, just hours apart.
First Accident: Auto Driver Killed in Motorcycle Collision
The first fatality was reported around 11:10 a.m. near Charu Mandop, Khullakpam Leikai, Khangabok, when a Royal Enfield motorcycle (MN04 G 9869) and an auto-rickshaw collided.
The auto-rickshaw driver, Laishram Ingocha Singh (52), son of late Mohon, from Khangabok Part (I) Awang Leikai, sustained severe injuries and later succumbed. He was well known among locals who frequented the Khangabok–Thoubal route for daily commuting.
The motorcycle rider, Thokchom Safaba (21), son of Sova, from Khangabok Mayai Leikai, suffered injuries and was immediately rushed to District Hospital Thoubal for medical attention. Police have begun examining factors that led to the collision, including road conditions and the speed of the vehicles involved.
Second Accident: One Dead, Three Injured in Head-On Collision
Barely two hours later, around 1:20 p.m., a second accident occurred near the gate of Thoubal District Hospital along the Imphal–Moreh National Highway (NH-102).
In this case, two Honda Activa scooters crashed head-on, leading to the death of one rider and injuring three others.
The deceased has been identified as Leimapokpam Ingo (52), son of Angou, from Athokpam Awang Leikai. He was riding with his wife, Nimita (50), who also sustained injuries.
The second scooter was ridden by Thiyam Lanthoibi (20), daughter of Manao, from Wangjing Awang Leikai, with Kangabam Gitanjali Devi (27), wife of Romesh from Yairipok, as pillion rider. All three injured persons were initially treated at Thoubal District Hospital before being referred to RIMS, Imphal, for further specialised care.
Police Urge Caution as High-Risk Roads See Rising Accidents
Officials noted that the stretch of NH-102 near the district hospital sees high traffic flow and repeated collisions, especially during peak hours. The Khangabok area, where the morning accident occurred, is also known for narrow lanes and mixed vehicle movement.
A police source said the twin incidents underscored the urgent need for safer driving practices and improved road discipline.
“Overspeeding, sudden lane shifts, and limited visibility often contribute to such tragic outcomes. We urge all commuters to exercise caution,” the officer added.
Investigations into both cases are ongoing, and post-mortem procedures have been initiated as per standard protocol.
Community in Shock as Two Families Lose Breadwinners
Residents of Khangabok and Athokpam expressed grief over the back-to-back fatalities. Both victims — Ingocha and Ingo — were regarded as hardworking family men and key earners for their households.
Local groups have called for stricter enforcement of road safety measures, including improved signage, speed checks, and awareness programmes in high-risk zones.