The blockade brought traffic on the highway to a standstill for several hours, resulting in a long queue of vehicles and severe congestion in the area (Representational image)
Dhubri, Sept 20: A significant number of truck drivers gathered at Chagolia, located on the Assam-West Bengal border, to stage a protest on National Highway 17. They were demonstrating against the alleged prohibition on carbon-laden trucks entering West Bengal.
This blockade halted traffic for several hours, causing extensive vehicle queues and severe congestion. Although Chagolia Police arrived to clear the road, the trucks carrying carbon remained stuck on the Assam side.
Reports indicate that over 1,000 trucks transporting carbon from Meghalaya have been stranded at the border for several days, with destinations including West Bengal and, in some instances, Bhutan.
The drivers expressed frustration over the abrupt halt in movement, claiming they received no prior notice. They stated that officials only mentioned an ‘order from above’ without providing a clear explanation.
One driver highlighted the financial strain caused by the sudden closure, stating, “The border was shut down without any prior notice. Trucks that had already been loaded should have been allowed to pass, and a clear date should have been announced for stopping further movement.”
Many drivers reported difficulties in securing funds for food and vehicle payments, as transporters were allegedly not providing adequate financial support during this extended delay.
Another driver mentioned that their trucks had valid documentation, including e-way bills, yet they were still being halted despite carrying legally documented goods from Meghalaya.
The ongoing blockade has raised security issues among the stranded drivers. Several reported thefts of diesel, mobile phones, and personal belongings from their trucks during the night.
One driver recounted that his helper’s phone and a bag containing Rs 10,000 were stolen while their vehicle was stranded for four days. He noted that they had been seeking answers from both Assam and West Bengal police without receiving a satisfactory explanation.
Additionally, the drivers complained about the lack of basic amenities at the border. They noted that prolonged parking on rough terrain was damaging their tires and that toilet facilities were insufficient. They also reported being charged parking fees ranging from Rs 200 to Rs 500, with one driver claiming a fee of Rs 400 for 12 hours.
The drivers alleged that the West Bengal Police were enforcing the stoppage and claimed, without providing evidence, that entry fees between Rs 5,000 and Rs 10,000 were being demanded from trucks carrying carbon. However, these claims could not be independently verified.
The frustrated drivers called for the authorities from both Assam and West Bengal to address the issue collaboratively with truck owners and transporters, rather than leaving them stranded at the border.
Although the protest was eventually called off following police intervention, the situation remained unresolved, with numerous carbon-laden trucks still reported to be stranded on the Assam side of the border.