Agatha for more rail connectivity

SHILLONG: Tura MP Agatha Sangma is in favour of expansion of the railway network in Garo Hills since the region has railway connectivity only till Mendipathar – a town near Assam.
“As of now, they have not sent any proposal for extension of railways but a meeting was held to discuss about the railways and another meeting will be held shortly to discuss and finalise the pending railway projects,” Sangma told The Shillong Times recently.
Sangma believes that any form of connectivity is good especially in view of the fact that the region has huge potential in the horticulture sector. “It has become necessary for the people to market their products outside the state for which they need good connectivity,” she said.
She however added that they would work out the route of the railways in such a way in order to ensure little to no destruction of forested areas.
It may be mentioned that the government has been talking about extending railways in other parts of Garo Hills including Dalu and South Garo Hills for quite some time now.
The railways have been able to make some headway in Garo Hills unlike Khasi Hills where the project has been opposed due to the fear of influx as the Tetelia-Byrnihat railway line has been lying defunct for years now.
Meanwhile, Sangma also informed that decks regarding land acquisition hurdles have been cleared for the improvement of the runway in Baljek airport
She also added that there are plans to connect the Baljek airport under the UDAN scheme of the Union Government.