Silchar civic groups set July 17 deadline for Assam govt to repair roads, warn of 'Road Strike'

A joint platform of 16 civil society organisations in Silchar on Monday, July 13, launched a symbolic 'Thank You' campaign to protest the poor condition of roads, waterlogging, traffic congestion and alleged unscientific road construction, giving the Assam government until Friday to address the issues.
 

The protest, organised by United Citizens at Meherpur, highlighted the deteriorating condition of the main road connecting key institutions such as Silchar Medical College and Hospital, Assam University and the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Silchar.
 

The protesters alleged that the road has remained in a dilapidated condition for years, causing hardship to thousands of patients, doctors, students and commuters who use it daily.
 

They said even light rainfall leads to severe waterlogging, while potholes and poor road conditions result in frequent traffic congestion and make commuting difficult.
 

The organisation alleged that despite repeated appeals, the authorities have failed to take effective steps to permanently resolve the problems.
 

Addressing the gathering, members of United Citizens announced that the government has been given until Friday to undertake visible measures, including repairing the damaged road, improving the drainage system and easing traffic congestion.
 

They warned that if no concrete action is taken within the stipulated timeframe, they will launch a 'Road Strike' from Saturday.
 

The organisation also cautioned that if the condition of the road does not improve, it will intensify its agitation through larger public protests, sustained demonstrations and, if required, call for a Silchar bandh.
 

The protest comes amid growing public concern over the condition of one of Silchar's busiest roads, which serves major healthcare and educational institutions in the Barak Valley region.