Misery of commuters plying on the National Highway 6 in East Jaiñtia Hills will not end with changing season.
The highway has suffered extensive damage due to years of neglect. The ongoing rainy season has exacerbated the situation, turning the potholes into miniature ponds and mud traps.
Now fumes and dust has exposed the travellers and commuters to undesired health hazards.
The bustling highway, which also connects Assam, Manipur and Tripura have long been marred by the deplorable condition of the road that has not only become an eyesore but also a constant hazard for vehicles and pedestrians alike.
Residents of the area are infuriated by the lack of action on the part of the National Highway Authority of India and the State government.
Shopkeepers in Napruh area said they have to shut their doors as the dust kicked up by vehicles enter their shops. They said dust also lands up in food and utensils making their lives miserable.
Local residents are calling for immediate intervention, pleading for a comprehensive road repair and to restore the national highway.
It may be mentioned that the NHAI recently informed that a a new contractor, SL Infra has been engaged on September 29 to undertake repair operations from Sonapur (km 141+500) to Ratacherra (km 171.455) and that the existing contractor, MR Construction is engaged to undertake repair work from Jowai (km 69.20) to Sonapur (km 141.50).
A proposal for strengthening and rehabilitating the entire Jowai to Ratacherra stretch, covering a total distance of 102.255 km, is also under consideration.
