‘Railway Connectivity Yet to Reach Khasi-Jaintia Hills As Still Opposed by Pressure Groups.’
RESUBELPARA, NOVEMBER 09: While the long-pending proposal to introduce railway connectivity in the Khasi-Jaintia Hills continues to face significant challenges, particularly due to strong opposition from various pressure groups, people in the Garo Hills have welcomed the railway service, describing it as a major boon for the region.
Deputy Commissioner of North Garo Hills, M.S.N. Marak, said the arrival of the railway line at Mendipathar has greatly benefited the people by making transportation easier and more affordable.
She made these observations while interacting with a group of journalists from Shillong who were visiting the Garo Hills as part of a tour programme.
Speaking to the media about the benefits of railway connectivity in the state, Marak said the service had significantly benefited the public, particularly farmers and livestock rearers, who can now conveniently transport their agricultural produce and livestock to Guwahati and other places for sale.
She further stated that farmers were now able to sell their produce at better prices while spending considerably less on transportation. People can travel to Guwahati for just Rs 30, which has been particularly helpful for economically weaker sections. Similarly, goods brought from Guwahati can also be transported to their homes at a lower cost.
The Deputy Commissioner also pointed out that railway connectivity would encourage industries to establish themselves in the region, creating more employment opportunities for local people. It has also reduced transportation costs, as goods that were earlier transported by trucks can now be carried by train at a much lower expense, particularly in terms of freight charges.
Marak appreciated the state government for its foresight in introducing railway connectivity, which has brought greater convenience to the people of the Garo Hills.
On concerns over the influx of people from other states, she said such movement was not solely due to the arrival of railway connectivity, as the region shares an interstate border and people can also enter and leave the area by road.
