Guwahati: Passengers were stranded as Assam-based drivers blocked Jorabat amid tensions over alleged attacks on Assam-registered vehicles in Meghalaya.The blockade left passengers waiting after they were forced to get off vehicles, uncertain about continuing their journeys.David Pharangkuper, a Byrnihat student, condemned the alleged attacks by Khasi Students’ Union members and said the situation would affect Meghalaya students studying in Guwahati, many of whom pursue medical courses there. “It is a big problem for us as we come to the city for our studies. This situation will now affect our education,” he said.Pradeep Arora, a tourist from West Bengal, said he and his wife were stopped after crossing Barapani. “We just crossed Barapani, and the vehicle was not allowed to enter Assam, and now we are being questioned by the drivers; this is harassment,” he said. He added that tourists remained stranded in parts of Meghalaya.Vehicles heading towards Meghalaya were also blocked. Rafiq Ali said, “I have already booked my stay and made all the arrangements. Now, everything has gone to waste.”Tourists have appealed for help on social media. Assam Police issued helpline numbers: “Whatsapp- 9181014888, Landline-03612381511. Families, relatives or any person having information about Assam residents stranded in Meghalaya can provide details through these helpline numbers. Information such as the person’s name, contact number, vehicle registration number, current location and any other available details can be provided for coordination and assistance,” the release stated.
