Frustrated by daily commuting challenges, residents of Doraha in Punjab's Ludhiana district are raising their collective voice for better rail connectivity. The local community has launched a persistent campaign, urging the Northern Railway authorities to sanction additional stoppages for several important trains at the Doraha railway station.
The Core of the Commuters' Grievance
The primary issue, as highlighted by the Doraha Nagar Council and its residents, is the lack of adequate train halts. They argue that while the station exists, many crucial trains pass through without stopping, forcing daily commuters, students, and business professionals to travel to larger stations like Ludhiana or Sirhind. This not only adds significant travel time but also increases their daily expenditure on transportation.
In a formal appeal, the residents have specifically requested stoppages for key trains including the Shaheed Express and the Jammu Tawi Express. These trains are vital for connectivity to major destinations, and their halt at Doraha would provide a direct and affordable travel option for hundreds of people.
Official Outreach and Railway's Stance
Leading the charge, Doraha Nagar Council President Neena Mittal has been actively corresponding with railway officials. A formal memorandum outlining the public demand has been dispatched to the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Ferozepur Division. The council's appeal stresses the station's strategic location and its potential to serve a large population if better services are implemented.
The railway administration, in preliminary responses, has indicated that such decisions are not taken lightly. Adding a stoppage involves complex operational considerations, including schedule adjustments for the entire route, maintaining overall travel time, and assessing passenger traffic viability. Officials have stated they will review the demand, but a final decision will follow their standard protocol and feasibility studies.
Broader Implications for Local Development
Beyond daily convenience, residents believe enhanced rail connectivity is a catalyst for development. Improved train services can boost local commerce, make education more accessible for students traveling to nearby cities, and generally elevate the town's profile. The campaign reflects a growing demand in India's smaller urban centers for infrastructure that matches their evolving needs.
The community's push is a test case for how responsive the railway network is to localized demands. As one of the busiest rail networks in the world, Indian Railways often faces such petitions, balancing operational efficiency with public service. The outcome in Doraha will be closely watched by similar towns across the region.
For now, the residents of Doraha continue to wait, hoping their persistent advocacy will lead to a favorable decision from the railway board. Their effort underscores a simple truth: in a nation that runs on its railways, a train's halt can mean the world to a town.
