GUWAHATI: Normal vehicular movement between Assam and Meghalaya has resumed after several days of tension and road blockades disrupted travel across the interstate border.
Assam Minister Atul Bora said the situation had returned to normal following discussions between the Meghalaya government and organisations involved in the protests. According to Bora, the development was conveyed to him by Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar.
The restoration of traffic comes after a tense week during which vehicles travelling between the two neighbouring states were affected by protests and restrictions following incidents of violence and vandalism involving Assam-registered vehicles in Shillong.
Bora welcomed the development and expressed gratitude to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for their roles in efforts to ease the situation. He also acknowledged the cooperation of various organisations and stakeholders who withdrew blockades and responded to appeals for peace.
The Assam minister said the resumption of normal movement was an important step towards restoring confidence and strengthening ties between the two states.
Emphasising the long-standing relationship between Assam and Meghalaya, Bora said the two states share close cultural, economic and people-to-people connections and should continue working together to preserve peace and harmony in the region.
The development follows discussions between representatives of the two state governments, which were held in the wake of the recent disturbances. Officials had earlier discussed measures to address issues along the interstate border and facilitate the movement of vehicles between the two states.
While normal traffic movement has officially been restored, reports indicate that some transport operators remain cautious and are seeking further assurances regarding the safety of drivers and passengers travelling between Assam and Meghalaya.
The two state governments are expected to continue engaging with stakeholders to ensure that the situation remains peaceful and that travel and commercial activities return fully to normal.
