Assam: Frustrated by poor roads, Sribhumi youths launch public donation drive to repair damaged highway

A unique form of protest was witnessed in Assam’s Sribhumi district on Thursday, May 28 as local youths collected public donations to repair a damaged National Highway that has reportedly remained neglected for a prolonged period.

According to local residents, several roads in the district, including stretches of the National Highway, have been in poor condition for a long time, causing severe inconvenience to commuters and affecting daily transportation. Despite repeated complaints, no significant repair work has reportedly been undertaken by the authorities.

In protest against the alleged inaction, a group of youths spread cloths on the roadside and began collecting donations from members of the public to fund repair work on the highway. The initiative drew support from residents across communities.

Following Eid-ul-Zoha prayers, both Hindus and Muslims participated in the donation drive and contributed funds for the proposed repair work. The youths stated that a total of Rs 8,250 was collected during the campaign and that the amount would be utilised for repairing the damaged highway stretch.

The protesters alleged that despite the presence of elected representatives, including MLAs and an MP from the district, as well as administrative officials such as the District Magistrate, no effective steps had been taken to address the deteriorating road conditions.

The youths also informed officials of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), including Zakaria Ahmed, Panna Kripanath, and Mallah, about the issue. According to the protesters, a written note regarding the matter was forwarded to the local MLA, MP, and divisional officer.

The note reportedly stated: “This morning, I collected money from the public in the town for the repair of the National Road.”

The protest has drawn attention locally for its unconventional nature and for highlighting public dissatisfaction over the condition of infrastructure in the district.