News Reporter
Sand-Laden Trucks Prompt Drastic Measures Amidst Road Damage Concerns
Diphu, December 22, 2023: In a decisive move to address traffic disruptions and road damage caused by sand-laden trucks on National Highways, Smti. Madhumita Bhagwati, ACS, District Magistrate of Karbi Anglong, issued a Prohibitory Order under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (Cr.P.C.).
The order, bearing reference No. KMJ-175/Prohibitory Order/2021/78 and dated December 21, 2023, comes in response to concerns raised by the National Highway and Infrastructure Development Cooperation Limited (NHIDCL). The NHIDCL highlighted the issue in a letter (No.NHIDCL/PMU-DIPHU/D-K/SEC-6/18/2023/3027) dated December 14, 2023.
The primary issue outlined in the order is the parking of numerous land-laden trucks on National Highways in the district, with the added concern of water being drained from the sand directly onto the highway. This practice has been observed to cause damage to the road, significantly reducing its longevity.
District Magistrate Madhumita Bhagwati expressed the urgency of the matter, leading to the issuance of the order ex-parte. The directive prohibits the parking of sand-laden trucks, engaged in draining water from the sand on the National Highway, throughout the district.
The order highlights the detrimental impact of water drainage on the shoulder and hard shoulder of the highway, emphasizing its role in compromising the integrity of the road. Moreover, the long queues of trucks parked on the highway have been identified as a threat to the smooth flow of traffic.
Madhumita Bhagwati, in her capacity as District Magistrate, urged individuals aggrieved by the order to approach her office for modifications, providing proper justifications. The order, effective immediately, warns of legal consequences, including prosecution under the provisions of the Indian Penal Code, for any violation.
As the district takes proactive measures to alleviate the issues affecting National Highways, the order signals a commitment to maintaining road infrastructure and ensuring the safety and efficiency of vehicular traffic. The residents and stakeholders in Karbi Anglong will be keenly observing the impact of this decisive move on the region's transportation landscape.