Agartala, March 05, 2026: What was meant to be a day of colours and celebration turned grim in Tripura as Holi festivities were marred by road accidents and large-scale preventive arrests. Police across the state enforced strict measures to maintain order, deploying additional forces at highways and busy junctions.

Despite the heightened security, several accidents were reported in Sepahijala district, a motorcycle collided with a truck at Uttam Bhakta Chowmuhani, killing Prasenjit Ghosh, who was declared dead on arrival at hospital; In West Tripura, a mentally challenged man was injured near Holy Cross College after being hit by an unidentified vehicle around 6:45 pm. He was rushed to AGMC and GBP Hospital; In Melaghar, 25-year-old Akas Mia of Mohanbhog suffered head and neck injuries in a self-accident after losing control of his vehicle.

Meanwhile, police intensified enforcement drives targeting drunk driving and public disorder. 20 drivers were detained for alcohol consumption behind the wheel. 206 individuals were booked under preventive provisions of the Tripura Police Act for drinking and roaming in public. In total, 445 preventive arrests were made during the festival.

Traffic teams also cracked down on violations, issuing 330 challans under the Motor Vehicles Act and collecting fines worth ₹5.69 lakh, along with ₹13,000 for overspeeding.

Officials said the measures were necessary to ensure safe celebrations, but the accidents and detentions left a somber note on Holi in the state.