Truckers calls indefinite road blockade on NH-62 in Meghalaya

Shillong, Apr 11 : Irked by the Meghalaya government’s alleged failure to curb illegal collection of toll, truckers plying on the National Highway (NH-62 today started an indefinite road blockade on the highway.

The All Garo Hills Coal Truck Operators' Association and Dobu Nongalbibra Coal Truck Operators' Association, which is spearheading the blockade, also demanded the immediate transfer of an enforcement inspector and his staff who allegedly extorted money from the truckers on the route.

"We also want the dismantling of all illegal toll gates that are collecting money from coal-laden trucks," a statement issued by the organisations read.

The truckers also accused W D Sangma, the Additional District Magistrate, of indulging in extortion activities and demanded that he should not be engaged in the supervision of NH-62.

Last month, the Meghalaya Assembly had constituted a House Committee to inquire into the alleged illegal collections on different National Highways in the state.

The House Committee was constituted after the opposition Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) charged the ruling Congress government with rampant illegal toll collection from truckers plying on NH-62.

Leader of the Opposition Conrad K Sangma (NCP) had suggested to the government installation of integrated check gates for a uniform system of tax collection.