Hojai |  Hundreds of commercial vehicles have remained stranded for the past several days along the Lumding-Haflong stretch of National Highway-27, as deteriorating road conditions and delays in ongoing construction and repair works continue to trigger severe traffic congestion on one of Assam’s most important transport corridors.

The prolonged disruption has caused significant hardship for truck drivers, transport operators and passengers, while also raising concerns over the movement of emergency services in the region.

According to reports, the unfinished and damaged sections of the highway, particularly between Jatinga and Harangajao in Dima Hasao district, have led to recurring traffic bottlenecks, with long queues of trucks and other vehicles stretching across several kilometres.

Transporters said many vehicles have been forced to remain stationary for extended periods, with some drivers reportedly stranded for hours and, in certain cases, days while waiting for traffic movement to resume.

The congestion has severely affected the transportation of goods, disrupting supply chains and causing delays in the delivery of essential commodities and commercial cargo.

Passenger vehicles have also been caught in the gridlock, adding to the difficulties faced by commuters travelling between the Barak Valley and other parts of the state.

Residents and travellers expressed concern that ambulances, fire service vehicles and other emergency response units have also reportedly been affected by the traffic jams, potentially hampering the delivery of critical services during emergencies.

Local residents alleged that despite repeated instances of severe congestion and several road accidents linked to the poor condition of the highway, effective long-term measures have yet to be implemented to address the recurring problem.

They claimed that the administrations of both Hojai and Dima Hasao districts have been unable to provide a lasting solution to the traffic crisis, which has become a frequent occurrence along the route.

Drivers operating on the highway said the damaged stretches have made travel increasingly difficult and unsafe, particularly during adverse weather conditions. They noted that ongoing delays in completing repair and construction work have further worsened the situation and increased operational costs for transporters.

Industry stakeholders warned that prolonged disruptions on the route could have wider economic implications, given the highway’s importance for trade and commerce in the region.

National Highway-27 serves as a critical road link connecting Lumding with Haflong and Silchar, facilitating the movement of passengers and goods between the Brahmaputra Valley, the hill districts and the Barak Valley.

The highway is considered a lifeline for the region, making uninterrupted traffic movement essential for economic activity, public transportation and access to essential services.

Despite the strategic importance of the route, hundreds of vehicles continued to remain stranded at various points on Thursday, underscoring the urgent need for intervention by the concerned authorities to expedite repair work and restore smooth traffic flow.

Officials had not immediately issued any detailed statement on measures being taken to ease the congestion, even as stranded motorists and local residents called for immediate action to address the worsening situation.