Guwahati: Vehicular movement on the Jorabat stretch returned to normal on Monday after Meghalaya taxi operators lifted their blockade.Tourist taxis registered in Assam resumed entry into Meghalaya after representatives of Meghalaya’s tourist taxi associations agreed to lift the blockade at Barapani.The move followed a meeting between Assam border development minister Atul Bora and Meghalaya deputy CM Sniawbhalang Dhar, who assured drivers that their grievances would be addressed.“Following Sunday’s meeting, normalcy has finally been restored, and drivers are now being allowed to pass through. We hope this continues and the situation remains peaceful in the days ahead,” said Dhrubaraj Axom, president of Assam State Drivers’ Union.Axom said the situation remained fragile, with only a few drivers using the route amid continued concerns over their safety. However, with the peak tourist season approaching, drivers resumed operations as it is their primary source of income.The reopening brought relief to passengers and tourists. A day earlier, passengers were forced to change vehicles near Barapani, increasing the inconvenience and cost of travel.“We are relieved that the blockade has been lifted and vehicles are being allowed to pass. The disruption had caused a lot of uncertainty for passengers,” said Gaurav Saikia, a passenger who arrived from Meghalaya.Another tourist said safety remained the biggest concern and hoped authorities would prevent a recurrence.
