Dhubri Railway Association Stages Major Protest for Infrastructure Demands
The Dhubri District Railway Development and Passengers’ Association organized a significant demonstration at the ASTC Garage ground on Station Road in Dhubri, voicing a series of critical railway-related demands. The protest, held on Sunday, highlighted long-standing issues affecting passenger safety, convenience, and regional connectivity.
Key Demands Presented During the Demonstration
During the protest, the association presented a comprehensive list of demands aimed at improving railway infrastructure and services in the Dhubri district. The primary demands included the construction of a railway overbridge at the Senpara level crossing in Dhubri town to enhance safety and reduce traffic congestion. Additionally, the association called for the establishment of a railway hospital near the Dhubri railway platform to provide medical facilities for passengers and staff.
Other significant demands focused on passenger amenities, such as the construction of a waiting room at Gauripur Railway Junction and the installation of a ticket reservation booking counter at Gauripur railway station. These improvements are seen as essential for enhancing the travel experience and addressing the needs of daily commuters.
Expansion of Train Services and Connectivity
The association also emphasized the need for expanded train services to boost regional connectivity. Key proposals included the introduction of a Dhubri–Tinsukia passenger train and a Dhubri-Guwahati train to improve intra-state travel. Furthermore, the association demanded that the Rajyarani Express be made a daily service from Dhubri, rather than its current limited schedule.
To enhance long-distance travel options, the association sought the initiation of trains from Gauripur Junction to major cities like Patna, Amritsar, and Delhi. Additionally, they called for the construction of an approach road from the Gauripur railway line to Goushala, which would improve access to the station and facilitate smoother transportation for passengers and goods.
Association Leaders Highlight Unfulfilled Promises
Madhab Chandra Paul, President, and Nurul Islam, Secretary of the association, spoke to the media during the protest, expressing frustration over unaddressed demands. They noted that Dhubri railway station, one of the oldest in Assam, has seen many requests presented to officials of the Alipurduar Railway Division remain unfulfilled despite repeated appeals.
"Since we represent the passengers’ interest, their amenities, safety and security have remained our top priority," they stated. "We are also contemplating moving the DRM at Alipurduar and the Dhubri District Commissioner with a memorandum soon to escalate our demands and seek immediate action."
The protest underscores growing public discontent with the slow pace of railway development in the region. The association's demands reflect broader concerns about infrastructure gaps that impact daily commuters and the local economy. As railway connectivity plays a crucial role in Assam's transportation network, addressing these issues could significantly improve travel efficiency and safety for residents.
This demonstration is part of ongoing efforts by passenger associations across India to advocate for better railway services, highlighting the need for government and railway authorities to prioritize infrastructure upgrades in older stations and underserved regions.
