Restricting weights of goods on Imphal-Jiri line TDC smells conspiracy
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 11 2016 : Referring to the Transport Department's gazette notification which said that vehicles plying along Imphal-Jiribam highway should not carry loads which are heavier than 24 tonnes, the Transporters and Drivers Council (TDC) has alleged that the same notification smacks of conspiracy hatched between BRO and the Transport Department.

Speaking to media persons here today, TDC president H Ranjit questioned why vehicles plying on Imphal-Jiribam highway are restricted to 24 tonnes only while no such restriction is imposed upon vehicles plying along Imphal-Dimapur highway.

All National Highways are under the care of the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).

The Transport Department's differential treatment of Imphal-Jiribam highway and Imphal-Dimapur highway contravenes legal ruling, he said.

The notification which prohibits vehicles from carrying more than 24 tonnes is aimed at diverting trucks from Imphal-Jiribam highway to Imphal-Dimapur highway.

Alleging that the notification carries a hidden agenda of BRO, Ranjit demanded immediate withdrawal of the same notification.

The Chief Secretary should instruct the BRO to strengthen the Barak bridge and replace its steel runners with wooden runners.

In accordance with the Motor Vehicle Act, all vehicles should be allowed to carry 20 tonnes of load and cross the bridge.

As per a ruling of the Supreme Court, all trucks having 12 wheels are allowed to carry 20 tonnes and travel anywhere across the country.

Likewise, trucks having 10 wheels can carry 15 tonnes.

The State Government cannot shirk responsibility on the pretext that National Highways are not under its care.

He went on to ask how the State Government can issue gazette notification if the National Highways are not under it.

The Chief Minister and the Transport Minister should intervene into the matter before it snowballs into a major issue, Ranjit added.

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