TURA: The expansion of railway line from Dudhnoi to Mendipathar in North Garo Hills is likely to be completed in March this year and the services will begin from April.

This was informed by the Member of Planning Commission, VK Chaturvedi, who visited the site to inspect and review the progress of the 19.7 km broad-gauge railway line and station at Mendipathar on Saturday.

The commissioning of this railway line will be a historic occasion for Meghalaya as this is the first railway line in the State. The foundation stone for the project was laid by the Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma in September 8, 2012.

Officials from the North Frontier Railway, Principal Secretary, GAD & Commissioner of Divisions for Garo Hills, P.W.Ingty, North Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner W. Khyllep and other officials from the district were also present during the inspection.

Addressing the media persons at Mendipathar College before going for the spot inspection from Dudhnoi to Nolbari, Chaturvedi expressed hope that with the start of the rail services they would be able to provide better support in development of trade and commerce in the region and that passenger traffic would move at a faster pace.

“We feel very happy because this is the first time railway is coming to Meghalaya. We congratulate the people of Garo Hills for excellent effort and with this we hope to be able to provide support for fair trade that will improve the position of economy here”, Chaturvedi said.

When asked about the Tetelia-Byrnihat rail project, he said the project would take some time to take off partly because of problem regarding land acquisition and partly due to opposition from the people and lauded the people of Garo Hills for their progressive attitude towards development.