According to the hospital authorities in Upper Assam, almost every second road accident victim is a young biker.

Road mishaps have alarmingly increased recently in Upper Assam. “Speeding motorcycles and rampant rides, disobeying traffic rules, are a menace,” said a paramedic at the casualties ward of a hospital here in Tinsukia.

“Most of the accidents are caused by youths who lose control of their motorcycles because of overspeeding. Every second victim is a youth,” said a doctor.

Police said although the number of casualties is less, there are hundreds of cases where victims sustain injuries. Accidents are reported mostly on Bhupen Hazarika Setu, Bogibeel bridge and national highways across Upper Assam. Abhijit Khataniar, a teacher at St Mary’s School, “Overspeeding of motorcycles can be prevented by strict implementation of traffic rules. Proper training should be imparted to youths before providing them driving licences. Motorcyclists must also understand the importance of safe driving. Defective vehicles should be taken off roads.”

According to the state police records, on an average, over 11 road accidents and four deaths were reported daily between January and July last year across the state.

Upper Assam’s Dibrugarh district has been identified as one of the accident-prone areas by the public works department.