Garbage menace threatens safety of historic Makum–Dangari Railway Track in Upper Assam

Piles of garbage dumped along the historic Assam's Makum–Dangari railway track in Doomdooma and adjoining areas of Tinsukia district have emerged as a serious safety hazard for trains and passengers, according to local sources.

 

The stretch, which falls under the Tinsukia Railway Division of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), has witnessed unchecked waste accumulation for several years. Food leftovers, expired medicines, plastic bottles, and broken glass litter the trackside, creating unsanitary conditions and posing significant operational risks.

 

The accumulation of waste has attracted large rodents, whose burrowing activities have weakened the track bed, raising fears of potential structural failure that could endanger the smooth movement of trains and the safety of passengers.

 

Local residents have also reported that anti-social elements frequently consume liquor along the tracks at night, leaving behind bottles and plastic waste. This has further aggravated the situation, effectively turning the historic railway corridor into an open dumping ground.

 

The Makum–Dangari section holds deep historical significance as part of the pioneering Dibru–Saikhowa railway network. Dangari station, established in 1883, played a crucial role during the British era, primarily facilitating the transportation of tea from plantations in the region. The metre-gauge line was later converted to broad gauge in the early 2000s, enhancing connectivity. Stations such as Doomdooma once bustled with activity, linking the region’s economy to the rest of the country.

 

Despite the clear threat to railway operations, repeated attempts by residents to alert the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) have reportedly yielded no response, leading to growing frustration among commuters and locals.

 

A passenger train continues to ply regularly between Makum and Dangari, underscoring the urgency for railway authorities to take immediate corrective measures. Residents have called for the prompt clearance of garbage, sealing of rodent burrows, installation of protective fencing, and stricter monitoring to prevent further dumping.

 

Railway sources indicated that routine inspections have been hampered by the sheer volume of waste, and no concrete action plan has been announced so far. Locals have appealed for urgent intervention before the situation escalates into a major accident, emphasising the need to safeguard both passenger safety and this important heritage rail link.