A mini truck carrying iron rods in Pathsala town.

Bajali: Despite clear provisions under the amended Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR), commercial vehicles and e-rickshaws carrying protruding iron rods, pipes, and roofing sheets continue to operate in Pathsala town, posing serious risks to commuters.

Residents have expressed concern over the growing danger, warning that sudden braking by a lorry loaded with iron rods could trigger fatal accidents, particularly for vehicles following closely behind. Locals also highlighted that pothole-ridden stretches of the National Highway, combined with overloaded vehicles, exacerbate the risk.

Earlier, the Transport Department in Barpeta district reportedly faced challenges in managing the Bajali area due to a shortage of staff. With the recent inauguration of the District Transport Officer (DTO) office in Bajali, citizens are hopeful that the department, along with the traffic police, will now intensify enforcement and take strict action against violators before a serious accident occurs.

Sasanka Talukdar is Northeast Now Correspondent in Pathsala. He can be reached at: [email protected]