Villagers in Assam's Dima Hasao block key highway project over unpaid compensation

Residents of Dolaichung village in Assam's Dima Hasao district have shut down construction on the vital Silchar-Saurashtra East-West Corridor four-lane highway, protesting the authorities' failure to pay compensation for acquired land.

 

The standoff escalated on April 21 when locals halted earthmovers and workers on the stretch from Jatinga to Harangajao—a crucial 25-km segment linking Assam's remote hills to broader national networks. This project forms part of India's massive East-West Corridor, designed to slash travel times and boost trade across over 3,000 km from Gujarat to the Northeast.

 

Villagers issued a two-day ultimatum to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on April 14, after a meeting with Project Director Yogesh Rawat. They demanded immediate release of dues for land taken for the road, including agricultural plots, plantations, and homes. Despite the deadline passing five days earlier, no payments arrived, prompting the blockade.

 

The dispute highlights deeper issues: NHAI has acquired extra land beyond initial plans, yet families remain empty-handed. Four joint surveys—conducted by the Dima Hasao administration, North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council's Land Revenue Department, and NHAI—have mapped the impact, but funds are stuck.

 

Affected residents say the delay threatens livelihoods in this hilly region, where farming sustains most families. Construction crews now idle, raising fears of further project setbacks in an area prone to landslides and ethnic tensions.

 

NHAI officials could not be reached for comment by Tuesday evening. Local leaders urge swift intervention to resume work and settle claims.