SHILLONG: The All Meghalaya Truck Owners, Drivers and Welfare Association (AMTODWA), in collaboration with NHIDCL and NHAI officials, conducted a site inspection from Mawryngkneng to Jorabat on Monday to identify suitable locations for developing lay-bys for heavy vehicles.
After the inspection, AMTODWA Vice-President Dapkupar Nongrum said the team found a promising site on the Assam side and urged authorities to clear and prepare the area for truck parking.
The association also requested NHIDCL to seek government approval for utilizing a large government-owned plot for parking heavy goods vehicles.
Nongrum highlighted the urgency of establishing proper lay-bys with the winter season approaching and an increasing number of goods trucks on the highway.
ALSO READ: Court to Decide on Bail of Arrested Truckers’ Association Leaders: SP Syiem
He noted that, in the absence of designated parking, drivers face difficulties due to police action against trucks parked along the highway and lack facilities for rest and maintenance.
AMTODWA General Secretary W. Warlarpih pointed out that currently, lay-bys exist only on the Assam side, forcing Meghalaya trucks to travel to Jorabat for parking.
He said the association would approach the government to secure suitable land on the Meghalaya side and is willing to cooperate in finding a permanent solution.
The association emphasized that adequate truck parking is vital for driver welfare and smooth highway traffic.
(4FrontMedia news)
