Shillong violence: Fuel supply to Meghalaya halted by Union on safety concerns

Guwahati: Tensions between Assam and Meghalaya escalated further on Saturday as the North-East Petroleum Mazdoor Union (NEPMZ) suspended the transportation of petrol, diesel and LPG from Assam to Meghalaya, citing safety concerns for Assam-registered vehicles and drivers operating in the neighbouring state.

The decision comes days after violence erupted in Shillong during a black-flag motorcycle rally organised by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) on August 19.

The violence reportedly left several people injured and saw more than 30 vehicles, mostly Assam-registered, damaged or vandalised.

NEPMZ said its decision to stop transportation, as well as loading and unloading operations in Meghalaya, would remain in force until the state government takes effective steps to ensure the safety of Assam-registered vehicles, including tourist vehicles.

NEPMZ general secretary Ramen Deka said petroleum workers were unwilling to risk their safety amid continuing unrest and allegations of harassment and attacks on drivers.

“Since petroleum products are highly flammable, this decision has been taken to ensure the safety of both vehicles and goods,” Deka said.

The union maintained that the move was prompted by security concerns and not opposition to the student movement. It called upon the Meghalaya government to restore normalcy and take stringent action against those responsible for violence and harassment.

The fuel disruption follows a broader transport standoff between the two states. Assam-based taxi and commercial vehicle drivers have suspended services to Shillong, while blockades have been reported around Jorabat and other key points on the Assam-Meghalaya route.

The developments have raised concerns over the supply of essential commodities to Meghalaya, which depends heavily on road connectivity through Assam for fuel and other goods.

Reports of panic buying and long queues at fuel stations in Shillong have already emerged amid fears of shortages. The situation has also seen fresh incidents of arson and attacks on government properties in Meghalaya.

A petrol bomb was reportedly hurled at a police outpost in Shillong, while government vehicles and a motorcycle were set ablaze in Ri-Bhoi.

Five companies of Central Armed Police Forces have been deployed in Meghalaya to assist the state police in maintaining law and order amid the continuing tensions. At the same time, authorities in both Assam and Meghalaya have been working to restore inter-state movement.

Assam Border Development Minister Atul Bora has spoken with Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong following Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s direction to address the situation.

The latest fuel transportation halt marks a significant escalation, as a law-and-order issue in Shillong has now begun affecting inter-state transport, tourism and the movement of essential supplies between the neighbouring states.

IANS