No takers for broomsticks as transit pass too pricey

SHILLONG: The traders who buy broomstick for supplying to other states have stopped procuring broomstick from farmers/producers at the Mawiong Regulated Market as they have to pay Rs 4,500 for transit pass (TP) issued by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC).
As usual, the farmers from Ri-Bhoi, East Khasi Hills and other parts of the state were at the market but only to be surprised as the traders refused to buy their products. (The sudden decision has left the farmers/producers at a loss as the traders argue that they are facing issues due to the lockdown and the high TP rate of the KHADC.
“We understand the grievances of the farmers but we are unable to supply them outside due to the lockdown and the high TP rate is adding up to the problems. We cannot take the entire stock of broomstick as there is no space also,” a trader said.
In this connection, KHADC CEM Titos Chyne said that he will take up the matter after the MDC of Mawhati Charles Marngar met the former to apprise him of the situation.