A section of workers of the Soongachi tea estate in Jalpaiguri district blocked NH31 on Saturday, demanding immediate payment of wage dues.

Over 300 workers, along with their family members, raised the blockade on the highway that skirts the tea estate around 8am. Traffic was disrupted on the stretch between Malbazar and Chalsa.

“We have not received wages for two fortnights. Christmas is ahead and we need money for the festival. We have sought the intervention of the state labour department and the district administration but there has been no change in the situation,” said a worker.

Malbazar police spoke to the agitators, after which the highway was cleared. The blockade continued for around 40 minutes.

“Based on the assurance of police, we have withdrawn the protest. But if the management does not disburse the wages soon, we will demonstrate again,” said a worker.