‘Where Is the Railway?’: Protesters Slam Delay in Silchar–Lanka Route

The long-pending demand for the proposed Cachar's Chandranathpur–Lanka second railway line has once again sparked public outrage in the Barak Valley. On Saturday, the Silchar-Lumding Broad Gauge Implementation Committee staged a dharna at the Silchar railway station, pressing for the immediate commencement of construction on the proposed route.

Several organizations participated in the protest, raising slogans such as "Start the Chandranathpur–Lanka second railway line work immediately!" and "Why has work not begun even after the survey?" The protestors questioned the delay and demanded immediate action from the central government and railway authorities.

Currently, the Silchar–Lumding railway line, which passes through hilly terrain, is frequently disrupted due to landslides. This causes significant hardship not only to residents of the Barak Valley but also to neighboring states like Tripura and Mizoram, leaving thousands stranded or facing transportation difficulties.

Recognizing the need for a more stable alternative, the central government had earlier approved the construction of a second railway line connecting Silchar to Lanka via Chandranathpur. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) have already completed the necessary surveys, but no visible progress has been made on the ground. This prolonged delay has led to mounting frustration among the public.

Protesters have now urged the government and the Railway Ministry to begin construction on a war footing to ensure safe and reliable connectivity in the region. Following the demonstration, the protestors submitted a memorandum addressed to the Union Railway Minister through the Station Master of Silchar Railway Station.

Meanwhile, the Silchar police detained four protesters, citing the absence of prior permission for the 'dharna' (protest). They were taken to the Silchar police station for further action.

The incident has intensified public discourse in the Barak Valley over long-standing infrastructure neglect and the urgent need for alternative rail routes in this disaster-prone region.

Also Read: NF Railway Operates Two One-Way Special Trains on Silchar–Lumding Hill Route