Nongpoh, April 24: Concerned over severe traffic congestion and recurring road accidents along National Highway-6 at Umling in Ri Bhoi district, the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) North Khasi Hills District Unit has urged the district administration to relocate the existing GST check gate.

The issue arises from the placement of the GST check gate near the highway, where goods-laden trucks are required to halt for inspection, leading to long queues, traffic disruptions, and frequent accidents.
A delegation of the FKJGP, led by its General Secretary Ricky Majaw and Information and Publicity Secretary Banroi Wahlang, met Additional Deputy Commissioner Balakyntiew Ranee and submitted a memorandum highlighting the issue and seeking immediate intervention.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Majaw said that the organisation’s concern is not based solely on public complaints but also on firsthand observations. He pointed out that trucks are often made to կանգ on the highway itself, creating hazardous conditions for commuters.

He further noted that several road accidents have occurred in recent weeks in the area, attributing them to the congestion caused by the check gate. The FKJGP has therefore appealed to the district administration to shift the GST check gate from Umling to a more suitable location where traffic movement would not be hindered.

Responding to the concerns, the ADC assured the delegation that the matter would be taken up seriously. She acknowledged that the administration has also received reports of accidents in the area and indicated that steps would be explored to address the issue.

The FKJGP expressed hope that the authorities will act promptly to ensure smoother traffic flow and improved road safety along the busy NH-6 corridor.