The relentless weekly protest against the coal dumping yard at Dumka railway station has reached a significant milestone, marking its 65th consecutive Sunday. Demonstrators, led by activist Ravi Shankar Mandal, are demanding the immediate relocation of the facility, which they blame for causing severe air pollution and significant inconvenience to both passengers and local residents.
Public Apathy and Political Visits Fuel Agitation
During the ongoing demonstration, the agitators launched a sharp critique against local public representatives, the district administration, and railway authorities. They accused these bodies of showing complete apathy and prioritizing their own "self-interest" over public welfare. "The coal rakes persist at Dumka station due to the indifferent attitude of our public representatives, district administration, and railway officials," Mandal stated emphatically.
The protest gained fresh momentum over the weekend following a visit to the station by Jamshedpur west (JDU) MLA Saryu Rai, who was accompanied by BJP MLA Devendra Kunwar. The presence of these political figures has brought renewed attention to the long-standing issue, putting additional pressure on the authorities to act.
Amrit Bharat Station Tarnished by Coal Dust
Protesters highlighted the stark contrast between the station's prestigious Amrit Bharat status and the ground reality. They pointed out the pervasive coal dust and filth that plague the station premises, with no evident clean-up efforts in sight. The coal rake point operates parallel to the passenger station, directly affecting the environment and commuter experience.
"The coal rake point has been established here parallel to the Dumka railway station. We would ask the railway to relocate its facility somewhere else immediately," said a protester, echoing the community's unified demand.
Threat of Escalation if Demands Are Ignored
With their patience wearing thin, the protesters have resolved to intensify their demonstration if their concerns remain unaddressed. They have a meeting scheduled with the state governor later this month and have warned that a lack of a satisfactory response will lead to a stronger agitation. The community's resolve appears stronger than ever as they enter the second year of their fight for a cleaner, safer environment around the Dumka railway station.
