Fuel transportation from Assam into Meghalaya has ground to a halt as transport workers have stepped back over pressing security fears. The North-East Petroleum Mazdoor Union took the decision to block the movement of petrol, diesel, and LPG following growing concerns about the safety of Assam-registered vehicles, including tourist transport, amid ongoing unrest in the neighbouring state.
Supply Chain Disrupted Due to Unrest
According to union general secretary Ramen Deka, loading and unloading operations inside Meghalaya were suspended immediately after reports of violence and unrest emerged from various parts of the state. Transporting petroleum products carries inherent safety risks because the materials are highly inflammable, making vehicle and cargo security paramount during normal operations.
Members of the union made it clear they are no longer willing to take those risks while intimidation and violence persist on the ground. Ramen Deka said, “Unless the situation improves, our members are not willing to transport any kind of petroleum products to Meghalaya. It is not possible to supply essential goods under constant fear and intimidation.”
Broader Impact on Travel and Security Measures
The security situation has also choked the movement of commercial cabs operating between Assam and Meghalaya, with commercially registered vehicles facing entry restrictions. Commuters traveling through the region have been advised to avoid specific routes such as the Byrnihat-Jorabat corridor to steer clear of potential trouble spots.
In response to the escalating tensions, authorities have stepped up security across Shillong, deploying additional police and security personnel at sensitive locations to bring the situation under control. The union has called on the Meghalaya government to restore order, establish normalcy, and take strict legal action against anyone involved in harassing vehicles and their occupants. A prolonged deadlock threatens to severely impact the continuous supply of essential petroleum products throughout the state.
