Siliguri, 20th September: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) activists once again joined the blockade demanding the repair of the dilapidated Baribhasa VIP Road. The road blockade was led by Fulbari-Dabgram BJP MLA, Shikha Chatterjee.
According to reports, on Wednesday morning, BJP MLA and supporters demonstrated in favor of road reform by tying a bamboo log on both sides of the road and blocking the traffic. The road blockade lasted for about an hour and a half where the demonstrators complained that protests demanding the repair of the road were repeatedly displayed. However, no necessary initiatives have been taken to resolve the issue. Reportedly, the road has become vulnerable to accidents resulting in a student’s death in a car accident. Additionally, travelers face difficulties commuting on the road.
According to MLA Shikha Chatterjee, the Siliguri Jalpaiguri Development Authority (SJDA) is responsible for renovating the road. Despite assuring to fix the road, the officials have not taken the necessary steps. On Wednesday, a Toto (e-rickshaw) overturned in the area which prompted the demonstration. Upon receiving the news, the authorities of the New Jalpaiguri (NJP) police station arrived at the scene. The demonstrators withdrew the road barricade following an assurance by the police officials.