Dima Hasao people protests against 'indifferent' attitude of NHAI

A Correspondent

Haflong: To register their protest against the indifferent attitude of National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), the people of Harangajao in Dima Hasao district on Monday blocked NH-54 E from 5 am. However, the blockade was lifted after receiving assurance from the district administration.

The blockade was called demanding early completion and proper repair-maintenance of National Highway 54 (E) which is now in a deplorable state due to the apathy of the government and NHAI. In support of the protest, people of Harangajao and it adjoining areas observed market bandh for 24 hours. The blockade disrupted road communication between Haflong-Silchar for hours.

The Jatinga-Harangajao portion of NH 54E has been in a deplorable condition for a long time and people of Harangajao in particular are the worst sufferers. Earlier also they had organized rallies and processions to draw the attention of the authorities concerned but was in vain. This time though they withdrew their agitation after the administration's assurance, they also warned that if the NHAI did not listen to their demand, then they would be bound to take the path of vigorous agitation in future for which the government as well as the NHAI would be held responsible.

The villagers also added that Silchar-based construction company Laksmi Motor should not be awarded the work as according to the villagers, Laksmi Motor was earlier awarded repair work in 2017 at cost of Rs 1.92 crore but it had allegedly done sub-standard work. As a result, the repaired road was washed away on May 5, 2018, also damaging properties of villagers of Dolaichunga worth around Rs 7 lakh. The villagers had earlier demanded compensation from Laksmi Motors but were ignored.

The villagers also submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner of Dima Hasao detailing their grievances about the deplorable condition of NH 54 E East-West corridor which connects Harangajao to the district headquarter Haflong and Cachar district as well.

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