Residents of Laltila under Khowai subdivision staged a fresh road blockade today, marking the second consecutive day of protests against the dilapidated condition of the Ramchandra Ghat–Dholabil road. 

The stretch, constructed by the Public Works Department (PWD) barely three months ago, has rapidly deteriorated under the weight of overloaded stone-laden trucks, with large potholes now turning it into what locals call a “death trap.”

Villagers allege that trucks with loads up to 40 tons—far beyond the road’s 10-ton capacity—have caused severe damage. Last week, locals briefly detained several trucks, securing a promise from drivers to fill the potholes with stones, but the commitment was never kept.

Frustrated, residents resumed their blockade, halting traffic from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. yesterday and continuing it today. Protesters declared they will not allow trucks to pass until the PWD begins repairs.

Tensions rose when personnel of the Tripura State Rifles (TSR) attempted to disperse the protesters, reportedly threatening villagers and charging at women demonstrators. Witnesses allege that the TSR withdrew only after heated exchanges, leaving the site with verbal abuse directed at locals.

Despite the escalating standoff, no official from the administration or the PWD has yet visited the site, intensifying the anger of residents. Protesters vowed to continue their blockade indefinitely until the government takes action.