From Our Correspondent
Tura, Oct 3: One of the busiest roads of the entire Meghalaya and Assam – Agia-Medhipara -Phulbari-Tura (AMPT) has often been listed as one of the worst roads in the state if not the whole country, has now become the people’s nightmares due to the quagmire that it has turned into.
The road, which begins near Agia in Assam’s Goalpara makes its way through almost the entire plain belt before ending in Tura.
While most of the road has become better in condition, the situation between the villages of Rajabala through Hallidayganj, Pipulbari up to Gonglanggre in West Garo Hills remains hellish.
As can be seen from pictures of just one stretch, the road has developed swimming pools leaving the road absolutely treacherous.
In fact it is hard to find any remaining remnants of black topping that was earlier there – possibly about five years ago. Repairs on the road have not only been rare but also extremely slow.
However despite its condition, thousands of vehicles from Assam and Meghalaya use the road for the lack of an alternative.
“There is no road to speak of, just the thought of a road that we once used. Despite being so frequently used by lakhs of people of both states on a daily basis, the situation is pathetic for all of us. We have no clue as to when the department will wake up to the needs of the people and ensure we once again get a proper road to travel on,” said social activist Mostapha Kabir.
Phulbari MLA, Abu Taher Mondal, had earlier raised the matter and informed that it has been taken up with the PWD minister and Deputy Chief Minister, Prestone Tynsong, who are following up the matter for now.
Rajabala MLA, Dr Mizanur Kazi lashed out during the recently concluded Assembly session over the deplorable condition of the crucial road terming it a step-motherly treatment of the state government towards the road.
“What can we say, even walking on these roads is hazardous, driving even more so. These roads are used by huge goods vehicles but the capacity is not there to support such heavy vehicles. In case of emergencies, literally everyone needs to pray while their loved ones are transported.
In almost 30 kms between Rajabala to Garobadha, there is no respite even for two minutes. You just keep holding on and dangling, even if seated,” felt another social activist, Nur Islam.
“Swimming is free in all these ponds unless a vehicle runs you over or topples on you. Further if you don’t like spending on massage sessions, please come here. We guarantee free massage sessions which may last up to two hours at a time. If you plan on coming during the winter, don’t bring your make-up kit. We have all the powder you will need,” said another resident, humorously.
What is interesting is that the repair of the road, as per locals, has been sanctioned but despite the gravity of the situation, the contractor tasked with the work, has hardly made any move. The department, despite the directive given by the High Court, has not really been pushy to repair the damage.