Railway passengers in Rangiya, Assam, gathered in large numbers today to protest against the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) for its lack of attention to passenger needs and inadequate infrastructure in the region. The Assam Rail Passengers’ Association (ARPA) spearheaded the demonstration, drawing attention to the glaring neglect in providing basic amenities and improving rail connectivity in Assam and the Northeastern region.
The March for Change
Protesters, carrying banners and chanting slogans, marched through Rangiya’s streets and culminated their demonstration at the Rangiya railway station. The rally underscored pressing passenger issues, such as the absence of clean toilets, insufficient seating, lack of ramps for the elderly and disabled, and the need for better rail connectivity.
Demands for Rail Improvement
ARPA General Secretary Dipankar Sharma addressed the gathering, lambasting the Railways for prioritizing profits over passenger comfort. “Indian Railways generates over ₹2.5 lakh crore annually, but the Northeast continues to be neglected. Stations in this region lack basic facilities that are taken for granted elsewhere. This disparity needs to end,” he stated.
The protesters submitted a detailed memorandum to the Divisional Railway Manager (Rangiya), General Manager of NFR, and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The memorandum outlined their grievances and specific demands aimed at improving passenger experience and infrastructure.
Key Demands Highlighted by Protesters
| Demand | Details |
| Basic Amenities | Toilets, clean drinking water, sufficient seating, and ramps for the elderly and disabled at all stations under the Rangiya Division. |
| Enhanced Connectivity | Introduction of more local trains and stoppages for premium services such as the Vande Bharat Express and Rajdhani Express at Rangiya Junction. |
| Infrastructure Development | Construction of Road Over Bridges (ROBs) at major level crossings and upgrading Rangiya Junction to a passenger terminal. |
| Restoration of Services | Resumption of pre-COVID train services and stoppages, particularly benefiting daily commuters and passengers from rural areas. |
| Regional Focus | Creation of a dedicated railway zone for the Northeastern states and adherence to the Assam Accord for ensuring jobs for local railway aspirants. |
| Introduction of Vande Assam Express | A new train reflecting Assam’s aspirations for better intra-state rail connectivity. |
Regional Challenges and Passenger Hardships
Elderly participants at the protest highlighted the difficulty of navigating railway stations without ramps or elevators. “We struggle to cross foot overbridges without ramps. The Railways should make stations inclusive for all age groups,” said one elderly protester. Another protester pointed to overcrowded trains and inadequate local services, emphasizing the need for more frequent train services connecting smaller towns and villages.
Focus on Rangiya Junction
Protesters also called for infrastructure development at Rangiya Junction. Key demands included the construction of a triangular line to eliminate engine reversals and streamline operations at Rangiya and Rangapara North Junctions. These changes would reduce delays and improve overall rail efficiency in the region.
Calls for Accountability and Action
Dipankar Sharma warned that protests would escalate if their demands remained unaddressed. “This is not just about Rangiya. The entire Northeast feels sidelined in railway development. If the Railways continue to ignore our issues, we will intensify our agitations,” he stated.
The rally also saw support from various local leaders and passenger advocacy groups, who called for immediate government intervention. They pointed out that the Northeast has consistently lagged in railway infrastructure, with fewer funds allocated to the region compared to other parts of India.
Economic Impact of Rail Neglect
The protesters highlighted that improved railway infrastructure and services could boost Assam’s economy by facilitating smoother trade, tourism, and commuting. They stressed that neglecting the region’s rail network hampers economic growth and isolates the Northeast from the rest of the country.
What’s Next for NFR?
The ball is now in the Railway Ministry’s court. With a comprehensive memorandum and widespread public support, the Assam Rail Passengers’ Association has made its position clear. The Northeast Frontier Railway, along with the Ministry of Railways, must address these long-standing grievances to ensure equitable development and improved passenger satisfaction.
Passenger Sentiments Reflect Broader Discontent
The demonstration in Rangiya reflects broader discontent across Assam and the Northeast regarding the state of railway services. The introduction of high-profile trains like the Vande Bharat Express has been welcomed, but locals argue that such advancements should not overshadow the pressing need for basic amenities and connectivity improvements.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and statements made during the Rangiya protest. The views expressed in the article are those of the protesters and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this publication. Readers are encouraged to verify details independently.
