Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 04 2009:
Reaffirming the earlier announcement, transporters have imposed an indefinite Chakka bandh along NH-39 and NH-53 with effect from midnight today.
In a joint statement, Manipur Drivers' Welfare Assn, Silchar Road Transporters' Welfare Society, All Manipur Inter-State Bus Association and All Manipur Petroleum Tanker Drivers' Union said that the transporters have been compelled to go ahead with the Chakka bandh as the Govt has failed to improve the deplorable condition of the two Highways and ensure security along the route, despite many reminders.
Reacting to the assurance given by Works Minister K Ranjit on July 30 to prevail upon the authorities concerned for releasing the required fund so that repairing of National Highway 39 could be started within one week, the joint statement asserted that such half hearted assurances given after the Minister have gone upto Mao along with some MLAs as if on a picnic trip are nothing but an attempt to befool the public.
Asking where the large amount of fund sanctioned by the Centre for highway development in accordance to the provisions of National Highway Act, 1956 has gone, the joint statement also reminded that the Minister that the demand of the transporters include improvement of the National Highway 53 as well.
It is also very unfortunate that the Chief Minister has rushed to Delhi leaving behind the people to their own fate, the joint statement added.