TDC flays BRO restrictions on NH-37
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 05 2013 : Categorically stating that BRO has no authority to block highways, the Transporters' and Drivers' Council (TDC) has flayed the restriction imposed by BRO on NH 37 (Imphal-Jiribam route) which said that truck should not carry loads weighing more than 18 tonnes including their own weights on the highway.

An official intimation sent to Police Department and other relevant officials by BRO Commandant Col Vinoi Bahal on March 22 sought prohibition of movement of vehicles heavier than 18 tonnes on the highway citing increased volume of traffic on one hand and dilapidated condition of bridges.

Speaking to media persons today, TDC president H Ranjit said the proposal to prohibit movement of vehicles heavier than 18 tonnes is not acceptable according to law.

BRO which is meant to construct and maintain roads has no authority to impose restrictions on highways.

On account of BRO's prohibition last night, around 50/60 trucks having 10 to 12 wheels have been stranded.

Trucks with 10 wheels can carry loads weighing as much as 15 tonnes on any National Highway of the country.

Likewise, trucks with 12 wheels can be loaded with goods weighing 20 tonnes.

For their movement in any part of the country, truck owners have been paying taxes.

Although the Government of India has been providing money for maintenance every year, BRO did not repair the highway and its bridges in time, Ranjit asserted.

When the highway was at its worst condition, movement of vehicles was restricted in the name of repairing the highway.

Now the highway has improved to some extent but the BRO is deliberately scheming to keep vehicles off the highway, Ranjit said while questioning the BRO's motive.

Ranjit went on to question, "While the BRO is unable to repair a small bridge, how can it repair big bridges?" .

TDC would not accept the BRO Commandant's prohibition.

If necessary TDC would repair the dilapidated bridges.

Again, no restriction was imposed on trucks carrying much heavier loads in the form of construction materials for the railway project.

Given this situation, it is questionable if the BRO has any valid reason for imposing restrictions on movement of trucks carrying essential commodities for the people of Manipur.

Alleging that one can expect very little from BRO regarding development of NH 37 to the level of a standard highway, Ranjit maintained the Government of India and the Government of Manipur should release BRO from its duty of developing NH 37 .

He suggested that the highway should be handed over to Military Engineering section of the Defence Ministry.

Comment