Meghalaya transporters call indefinite road blockade

Shillong, Mar 24: Piqued by the government's apathy, transporters here have called for an 'indefinite night road blockade' between 1930 - 0600 hours from March 26.

The blockade would affect the Khasi-Jaintia hills, including the National Highway 40 and 44, which is the lifeline of Mizoram, Tripura, Barak valley of Asom and parts of Manipur, Joint Action Co-ordination Committee (JACC) Convener Augustine Shanpru told UNI here today.

The JACC imposed the blockade after the ruling Congress-led Democratic Alliance government failed to decide on the new rate of the High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) as suggested by them.

The state government had fixed Rs 2,000 for the registration plates, while the JACC suggested that the rate be fixed Rs 825 for heavy vehicles and Rs 425 to Rs 400 for small and light vehicles.

''This time the JACC will not respond to any offer of talks till the government gives a written assurance of fulfilling the demand,'' Mr Shanpru said, adding that J.D.Rymbai government had assured them of reviewing the rates.

''If the government continues to remain adamant on this issue, we have no option but to intensify our agitation,'' Mr Shanpru said.

Meanwhile, it is learnt that the government would invite the JACC for talks to resolve the matter.

UNI