The Assam Rail Passengers’ Association (ARPA) has once again urged the Assam Legislative Assembly to address the persistent issue of inadequate railway services in the state. During a recent session, ARPA highlighted the cancellation of several essential train services, which has forced many residents to rely on road transport, causing inconvenience and increased travel costs.
Dipankar Sharma, General Secretary of ARPA, expressed concerns over the delays in approving over 100 proposals submitted by the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) to the Railway Board in New Delhi. These proposals, aimed at improving connectivity and restoring services, remain pending, leading to public agitation, including protests like “Rail Roko.”
ARPA has called on the Assembly to pass a resolution urging the Railway Ministry to expedite the approval process and address the grievances of Assam’s rail passengers. The association also emphasized the need for better inter-district connectivity and the restoration of pre-COVID train services, which have yet to resume fully.
The appeal underscores the growing demand for improved railway infrastructure and services in Assam, as residents continue to face challenges in accessing reliable and affordable transportation. ARPA’s proactive stance aims to ensure that the state’s railway network meets the needs of its people and contributes to regional development.