Dibrugarh: A spelling error on a newly installed signboard at the Khowang toll gate in Assam’s Dibrugarh district has triggered public criticism, with residents questioning oversight in a key infrastructure project.
The signboard, intended to read “Oversized Vehicle Lane”, instead displays “Oversized Vihicle Lane”, drawing ridicule and raising concerns over quality checks prior to installation.
However, residents say the issue extends beyond the typographical error. The toll gate, coming up in a busy stretch near local marketplaces, is increasingly being viewed as a potential burden for daily commuters.
Khowang serves as an important transit point for nearby villages, with hundreds of people using the route every day for work, education, and essential services. The presence of a toll gate in such a location has raised concerns about traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and weekly market days when the area witnesses a significant surge in vehicles, including small traders, farmers, and transport carriers.
Residents fear that the toll collection process could lead to long queues, slowing down traffic flow and disrupting daily routines. “During market days, the road is already crowded. Adding a toll gate here will only worsen the situation. People transporting goods may face delays, affecting their livelihood,” Ranjit Das, a local shopkeeper remarked.
Commuters have also pointed out that frequent travelers from nearby areas will be disproportionately affected, as they may have to pay toll charges multiple times a day for short-distance travel. This, they argue, adds a financial burden on local residents who rely heavily on this route.
The combination of a basic spelling error and larger logistical concerns has led many to question the planning and execution of the project. Citizens have urged authorities not only to correct the mistake immediately but also to reassess traffic management strategies to minimize inconvenience.
As the toll gate nears operational readiness, locals are calling for better planning, proper verification of public infrastructure, and measures to ensure that the project does not adversely impact the daily lives of people in the region.