SHILLONG, NOV 5: The state government has conveyed its inability to accede to the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTODA) demand for uniform transportation rates for cement and clinkers outside Meghalaya’s borders.

Speaking to media persons on Wednesday, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of transport Sniawbhalang Dhar clarified that while the government has notified rates within Meghalaya, it cannot extend these rates to other states, such as Assam.

His statement came following the MCTODA decision to sustain its strike, halting the transportation of cement and clinkers.

The association is protesting the disparity in transportation rates, citing that the rate within Meghalaya is Rs 9, while outside the state, it drops to Rs 5, a difference they deem unacceptable.

Dhar stated that some associations have been demanding the cement plant pay the rate notified by the government, which the plant has already complied with.

According to Dhar, two associations from East Jaintia and West Jaintia are working harmoniously with the cement plant, having accepted the government-notified rates. However, the MCTODA is demanding the same rate be applied beyond Meghalaya’s borders, which is unfeasible as it falls outside the state’s jurisdiction.

Dhar informed that the government-notified rates within Meghalaya: Rs 11/- per metric ton per km for black top roads, Rs 12/- per metric ton per km for gravelled top roads, and Rs 14/- per metric ton per km for kutcha roads. The cement plant has implemented these rates, he added.

When asked, the deputy chief minister said, “…the state government cannot notify rates on behalf of other states, such as Assam.”

Dhar extended an invitation to the associations to meet with him as Transport Minister, but stressed that the issue is a business matter between the cement plant and transporters.

“This is the business between cement plants and transporters and not government business,” he stated.

Referring to an incident at Mawryngkneng, Dhar confirmed that 2-3 individuals have been arrested, and the police will proceed with their investigation and take necessary action.

Also Read: NH-6 road work to be completed by Nov 15, Meghalaya HC orders joint inspection

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