Deteriorating Tunnel on NH-27 Raises Safety Concerns in Dima Hasao
Safety Issues on NH-27 Tunnel
Haflong, March 7: A tunnel located on the Lumding-Silchar segment of National Highway 27 in Dima Hasao district has become a hazardous zone, with drivers citing significant negligence and inadequate upkeep.
The 1.1-kilometer tunnel near Maibang, part of the East-West Corridor initiative, is in a perilously deteriorated state.
Numerous large potholes have emerged within the tunnel, and various sections of the roadway are severely damaged. Motorists report that the poor road conditions have led to numerous accidents.
The four-lane highway project, managed by the National Highways Authority of India, has been under development for almost twenty years.
However, residents and transport operators claim that the segment between Lumding and Silchar remains unfinished.
Truck drivers using this route have voiced their frustration. One driver, who has been navigating this road for 16 years, mentioned that the construction between Lumding and Banderkhal is only about 60% complete.
He also pointed out the absence of adequate lighting in the Maibang tunnel, making nighttime travel particularly dangerous.
Motorists traveling the Guwahati–Haflong–Silchar–Agartala route report that the road conditions from Lumding to Dima Hasao district are especially poor, with deep potholes posing serious risks for heavy vehicles.
Another significant issue raised by transporters is the state of the toll gate near Lumding. Drivers claim that despite paying toll fees—Rs 560 for a 16-wheeler truck—there are no basic amenities like drinking water or restrooms at the toll plaza.
It is noteworthy that the responsibility for repairing the Maibang tunnel section was reportedly assigned in August 2024 to a construction company named DC Ajmera. However, allegations suggest that repair work has yet to commence.
There are also claims that the contractor has subcontracted the work to another firm based in Guwahati.
While four-lane highway projects have been completed in neighboring states like Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, drivers are questioning why the work on this vital stretch through Dima Hasao remains unfinished even after 15 years.
Transporters and local residents are now calling on the relevant authorities to urgently repair and restore the Lumding-Silchar NH-27 stretch to avert further accidents and ensure safe travel.