Assam: Dhubri Passengers’ Association protests over railway delays, alleges corruption

The Dhubri District Railway Development & Passengers’ Association on February 8, staged a sit-in protest at the ASTC garage in Bou Bazar, demanding immediate action on long-pending railway infrastructure projects and administrative reforms in the district.

Led by association president M. Ch. Paul and secretary N. Islam, the protesters accused the authorities of prolonged negligence towards Dhubri’s rail infrastructure and passenger services. They said several incomplete projects had caused inconvenience to commuters and affected overall connectivity.

Among the key demands raised was the immediate resumption of construction work on the Dhubri Railway Hospital to provide essential healthcare facilities to railway employees and the public. The association also sought early operationalisation of the Senpara Railway Flyover, stating that despite progress on similar projects in the district, the flyover continues to remain a major traffic bottleneck.

Other demands included immediate construction of the road and drainage system leading to the Sri Krishna Gaushala, installation of railway crossing gates at Jhagrarpara, and construction of a boundary wall at Dhubri Railway Station to prevent encroachment and accidents. The protesters also called for the development of road junctions at Shantinagar and IG Road to ease urban congestion.

Highlighting the need for improved rail connectivity, the association demanded the early morning launch of the Guwahati–Dhubri Intercity Express to benefit office-goers and traders, introduction of direct train services from Dhubri to Amritsar, Patna and Delhi, and an increase in the frequency of the Rajyarani Express to operate daily.

The association also alleged widespread corruption in the booking of Tatkal tickets, accusing the Railway Protection Force (RPF) of allowing brokerage and illegal practices that prevent genuine passengers from accessing emergency travel tickets. They demanded strict action to curb such practices.

The association leaders warned that if the authorities fail to provide a clear timeline for addressing their demands, they would intensify their agitation in the coming days.