Silchar: Bus owners and drivers operating on the Silchar-Haflong route have urged Assam minister Krishnendu Paul to resume services suspended since Sept 8.In a memorandum, the operators sought Paul’s intervention to restore passenger bus services on NH-27 ahead of Durga Puja, citing financial losses and inconvenience to commuters travelling between the Barak Valley and Dima Hasao.The services were introduced after the Dolaichungga flyover near Harangajao opened on NH-27 but were suspended barely a week later on the authorities’ instructions, reportedly over safety concerns.The service benefited commuters travelling between Silchar and Haflong, with the fare fixed at Rs 200 per passenger. Its suspension has triggered resentment in Dima Hasao and the Barak Valley.The operators said they had obtained the required permits and complied with transport department regulations. While Haflong authorities cited passenger safety, the operators maintained that the highway was suitable for passenger vehicles and that drivers followed traffic and safety rules.They said the suspension pushed bus owners and drivers into financial distress, as passenger transport was their only source of income.“Without regular earnings, we are struggling to meet household expenses and pay monthly loan instalments,” the operators said in the memorandum.They said Durga Puja was a key period for passenger transport, with increased movement between Silchar, Haflong and adjoining areas. The operators urged the authorities to review the restrictions and allow buses to resume operations on NH-27, saying this would ease travel difficulties and protect transport-dependent livelihoods.
