The Assam State Drivers Association has threatened that if Sol is not taken out, the drivers entering Assam from Meghalaya will be stopped at Khanapara.
The union, representing over 40,000 drivers, has expressed serious concerns about travelling to Meghalaya following this incident.
Assam government to address the recent blockade by the Hynniewtrep National Youth Federation (HNYF) that prevented Assam vehicles from entering tourist spots in Meghalaya, leaving thousands of visitors stranded in East Khasi Hills district’s Umtyngngar.
The union, representing over 40,000 drivers, has expressed serious concerns about travelling to Meghalaya following this incident.
On Friday, HNYF members blocked hundreds of Assam vehicles, causing significant disruption and fear among drivers and travelers.
Addressing the media on Saunday, union president Dhurbaraj Axom criticized the Assam government for its delayed response, stating, “It’s unfortunate that even after three days, the chief minister and tourism minister have remained silent on the matter.”
The union demands immediate intervention from the chief minister, warning that without government action, Assam drivers will remain vulnerable to similar incidents in Meghalaya. Axom questioned the chief minister’s inaction, saying, “Is the chief minister waiting for something worse to happen before speaking up?”
The union has threatened to block vehicles from Meghalaya from entering Assam at Khanapara if a solution is not found, which would create
significant disruption between the two states. “If both governments cannot guarantee smooth plying of vehicles, ensuring drivers’ livelihood, we will block the highway at Khanapara and won’t let a single vehicle from Meghalaya enter Assam,” Axom warned.
The issue arose after the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association submitted a memorandum to the Meghalaya government, requesting restrictions on vehicles from other states at hotels, preventing them from ferrying tourists to local spots. Assam drivers, who pay an annual tax of Rs 1,400 for tourist permits, expect the Meghalaya government to ensure their safety.
The drivers believe both state governments are responsible for their security. The blockade has heightened tensions and distrust among Assam drivers, prompting an urgent call for a permanent solution to prevent future incidents and ensure safe travel between Assam and Meghalaya