TURA: The Garo Students’ Union (GSU), Southern Zone in Baghmara has called on Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma to initiate immediate construction of a double lane on NH-62 from Dangsa A’we to Karonggre as well as the extension of the highway from Ranikor via Moheskola to Baghmara.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, the union said that the deplorable condition of roads in the district was posing problems with regard to supply of essential commodities like food grains, fuel, LPG and other basic commodities. The union added that due to difficulty in transporting goods, certain unscrupulous businessmen were taking advantage of the situation and enhancing the prices especially of perishable items.
The union said that the deplorable condition of roads in the region was not only inconveniencing daily commuters and travelers but also affecting the students. Recalling the recent announcement by commercial vehicle operators from Tura to raise vehicle fares, the union said that pitiable condition of the stretches along NH-51 and NH-62 had forced the operators to call for enhance fares.
The union said that due to bad roads the attendance of government employees posted at Baghmara has also been badly impacted. “Many government employees have begun to view their posting as ‘punishment postings’ and detest the idea of travelling to the district even to attend office. Their feelings are validated when you go by the many vehicle breakdowns that have taken place on the road,” the union added.
The union while urging the Chief Minister to urgently look into the matter has also sought the construction of a By-pass road for coal trucks as daily use of the road by these trucks has led to its quick deterioration. With regard to this, the union proposed that the same is constructed from Lotnagar to Jaksongram.
