STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: Assam's taxi drivers, who are enforcing a blockade of any vehicles from Meghalaya entering Assam, today temporarily called off their strike after the Assam and Meghalaya governments held a meeting in Guwahati today and both sides agreed to facilitate safe movement of people and vehicles between the two states. Following the meeting, the Meghalaya government assured the safety and security of tourists and vehicles from Assam.
The Assam State Drivers' Union, who are spearheading the blockade, confirmed the development in the evening today. However, they asserted that suspension of the blockade is temporary and will be resumed until a lasting solution was reached to the concerns arising from the recent incidents.
On the third day since Jorabat witnessed blockades from both sides over the recent violence in Shillong, the blockade of Meghalaya-bound traffic was reportedly extended to several more entry points in Assam. The Assam State Drivers' Union earlier said protesters had blocked Meghalaya-bound traffic at Rani, Boko, Hahim and Lampi Road, in addition to the ongoing blockades at Jorabat and Khanapara.
The development came after the Meghalaya government reportedly advised travellers to use alternative routes to enter the state amid the ongoing situation. The widening blockade has further disrupted vehicular movement between Assam and Meghalaya, with Assam-registered vehicles reportedly facing restrictions when attempting to enter the neighbouring state.
The continuing restrictions have also raised concerns over the movement of passengers, commercial vehicles and essential supplies along the Assam-Meghalaya corridor. Further disruption of the movement of essential supplies into Meghalaya is likely to pose an economic crisis.
Also Read: Assam-Meghalaya Tension Escalates: Jorabat Blockade Enters 2nd Day After Shillong Violence