Assam Polls 2021: Migrants proceed homewards, city dwellers face crises

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Since the last four days, shutters are down on various small-time businesses and entrepreneurial activities that were carried out by migrants across the city. The case is similar with reference to masons and their helpers. Mentionably, the majority of these migrants are from the minority-dominated areas. Most of them usually hail from the areas where the third and final phase of Assembly polls is slated on April 6.

A migrant, Rahmat Ali said, "I and my family members are going home to cast our votes in Dhubri. Many of my friends from Barpeta are also doing so."

Another migrant, Sukuruddin pointed out, "Taking advantage of the situation, the long-distance buses and other vehicles are charging hiked fares from these people heading homewards."

As a result, one does not come across the daily-wage earners who usually gather under the Ulubari flyover intersection, Hatigaon Chariali, Ganeshguri, Hengerabari, Shantipur, Bharalumukh, among others. They wait at these points while waiting for works to be offered to them from the local people or contractors and their middlemen.

Besides, many among the migrants ply e-rickshaws and other small vehicles in various roads and lanes of the city. Now in these routes, the general commuters are forced to manage their journeys without these economical though slower public vehicles.

Meanwhile, many parts of the city are wearing a deserted look after a large chunk of the floating population has left for their homes. Many shops especially those vegetables, fish, eggs and grocery items in Hatigaon, Sijubari, Lokhra, Motghoria, parts of Gandhi Basti, Sarania and Beltola are seen closed as their owners have left for their homes in different districts of lower Assam to cast votes on April 6.

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