Neglected NH-17 turns into a nightmare for Mirza residents

ABHIJIT KALITA
PALASBARI, Oct 13: The plight of residents in Mirza under the Palasbari Legislative Assembly Constituency (LAC) continues to worsen as National Highway 17, which connects several key areas of lower Assam, remains in a deplorable condition due to years of official apathy and poor maintenance. What was once a vital communication link has now turned into a nightmare for daily commuters and locals, blanketed with dust and riddled with deep potholes.

The neglected stretch of the highway has not only disrupted transportation but has also severely affected local businesses, education, and public health. Every passing vehicle raises clouds of dust, engulfing nearby shops, schools, and houses, creating an unbearable environment for residents. During the monsoon, the same stretch turns into a muddy trap, making it nearly impossible for vehicles to pass without damage or delay.

Despite repeated complaints to the concerned authorities, including the Public Works Department (PWD) and National Highways division, no visible steps have been taken to address the issue. The locals allege that while promises of repair and upgradation have been made multiple times by elected representatives and officials, none have been fulfilled.

“We have been suffering for years. The dust has become part of our daily life. Children and elderly people are falling sick frequently because of the air pollution caused by this road. Even ambulances struggle to move through this road. It takes more than half an hour to cover a short stretch during peak hours,” said a local resident.
Residents further expressed frustration that the region continues to be neglected in terms of basic infrastructure. Apart from the crumbling highway, Mirza and its adjoining areas still lack a properly equipped healthcare facility. In cases of medical emergencies, patients are often referred to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), located nearly 35 kilometers away, resulting in precious time being lost.

“We don’t have a proper hospital here. For even minor treatment, we have to rush to Guwahati. What’s the use of development talks if the basic needs of the people are ignored?” lamented Rahul Thakuria , a local resident.
Civic bodies and local organizations have also raised their voice, urging Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also holds the PWD portfolio, to take urgent action to restore the highway and address the long-standing grievances of the people. They have warned that if the government fails to respond, they will resort to public agitation.

The continuing neglect of NH-17 stands as a glaring example of administrative indifference towards rural Assam, where essential infrastructure continues to crumble despite the state’s push for modernization and connectivity. Until swift and concrete action is taken, the people of Mirza are left to struggle on a road that has quite literally become a path of pain.