Residents and commuters in Assam have demanded immediate repair of the badly damaged National Highway 37, alleging that the road has become dangerous for daily travel and poses serious risks to public safety.
Locals said several stretches of the highway have developed large potholes, broken surfaces, and waterlogged sections due to poor maintenance and heavy rainfall. The worsening condition of the road has reportedly caused traffic congestion, vehicle damage, and frequent accidents in different areas.
Commuters, transport workers, and local organisations have now urged authorities to begin urgent repair work before the situation becomes more severe during the monsoon season.
National Highway 37 remains one of Assam’s most important transport corridors, connecting major towns, commercial centres, and districts across the state.
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Residents Raise Safety Concerns
Local residents said travelling on several stretches of NH-37 has become increasingly risky, especially at night and during heavy rain.
Drivers claimed deep potholes and uneven surfaces create serious hazards for cars, buses, motorcycles, and goods vehicles. Many commuters also alleged that damaged portions of the highway often remain submerged during rainfall, making it difficult to identify dangerous sections.
Residents stated that school students, office workers, emergency vehicles, and transport operators face daily difficulties because of the deteriorating road condition.
Several commuters said poor visibility and damaged road surfaces increase the chances of accidents, particularly on busy stretches with heavy traffic movement.
Local organisations have also raised concerns regarding delays in maintenance work despite repeated complaints from the public.
Transport Operators Face Heavy Losses
Truck drivers, taxi operators, and commercial transport workers said the poor condition of NH-37 has increased vehicle maintenance costs and fuel consumption.
According to transport operators, vehicles often suffer tyre damage, suspension problems, and engine-related issues while travelling through heavily damaged portions of the highway.
Drivers also complained about longer travel times caused by traffic congestion and slow vehicle movement on unsafe stretches.
Commercial vehicle owners said transport delays affect the movement of goods and increase operational expenses.
Some drivers alleged that accidents involving heavy vehicles have become more frequent because of damaged road surfaces and poor drainage systems.
Transport associations have urged the government and highway authorities to take immediate steps to restore safe road conditions.
Locals Demand Immediate Government Action
Residents from different districts have appealed to the state government and the National Highways Authority to begin emergency repair work without delay.
Many locals said authorities should prioritise road restoration before monsoon conditions worsen further.
Community leaders argued that NH-37 plays a crucial role in Assam’s economy and transportation network. Therefore, proper maintenance remains essential for public safety and smooth connectivity.
Several citizens also demanded stronger monitoring of highway construction and maintenance activities to ensure better quality infrastructure.
Social organisations and local groups have reportedly submitted complaints and appeals to district administrations regarding the highway’s deteriorating condition.
Residents warned that continued delays in repair work could lead to more accidents and disruption of transportation services.
Highway Important for Assam’s Connectivity
National Highway 37 serves as one of Assam’s most important road links and supports passenger transport, trade, tourism, and movement of essential goods.
The highway connects several districts and acts as a major transportation route for commercial activities in the state.
Officials said thousands of vehicles use the highway daily, including public transport buses, trucks, private cars, and emergency service vehicles.
Because of its strategic importance, locals believe authorities must maintain the road regularly and address damage quickly.
Experts noted that road infrastructure remains critical for economic growth, especially in northeastern states where connectivity challenges already exist due to terrain and weather conditions.
Heavy Rainfall Worsens Road Condition
Residents said heavy rainfall in recent weeks has worsened the condition of NH-37 in several places.
Water accumulation on damaged stretches has created additional safety risks for motorists. Commuters claimed some potholes remain hidden under water, increasing the possibility of accidents.
Locals also pointed to inadequate drainage systems along parts of the highway. They said poor drainage allows rainwater to remain on the road for long periods, causing faster deterioration of the surface.
Experts stated that regular maintenance and proper drainage infrastructure are essential for highways in flood-prone and high-rainfall regions like Assam.
Several residents urged authorities to undertake long-term road strengthening measures instead of temporary patchwork repairs.
Political and Public Pressure Increases
The issue has started attracting political attention as public frustration over road conditions grows across affected areas.
Some opposition leaders criticised authorities for failing to maintain one of the state’s most important highways despite repeated complaints from citizens.
Local representatives and social activists also called for greater accountability regarding road construction quality and maintenance contracts.
Political observers said infrastructure issues often become major public concerns in Assam, especially during the monsoon season when road conditions deteriorate rapidly.
Citizens have increasingly used social media platforms to share images and videos showing damaged sections of NH-37.
Authorities Expected to Review Situation
Officials have reportedly acknowledged complaints regarding the highway condition and may conduct inspections in affected areas.
However, authorities have not yet announced a detailed repair timeline or restoration plan for all damaged stretches.
Sources indicated that emergency repair measures could begin in some sections depending on weather conditions and administrative approvals.
Residents and transport workers said they would continue demanding immediate action until authorities complete proper repair and maintenance work.
Meanwhile, commuters travelling through NH-37 continue to face daily difficulties as concerns grow over safety, connectivity, and the overall condition of one of Assam’s busiest highways.
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