SHILLONG, July 22: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Friday called for a segregation of thought as far as opposition to the railways is concerned and pushed for introduction of goods train in the state to open up the economy and reduce inflation.
Acknowledging that some sections of the society were protesting against the railway project, TMC leader George B Lyngdoh said, “They are against passengers trains but they should segregate their thoughts and allow introduction of goods trains to benefit the people and the entrepreneurs.”
“Business will improve as will connection with the rest of the country,” he argued.
Stating that railways help ease transportation of goods from across the country, he reasoned: “We as a state are heavily dependent on imports. Presently, we are depending on roads to bring in goods from outside. We should definitely allow goods train for now.”
“The goods train will help reduce the inflation and bring down the high cost of items that will benefit the economically challenged households and the poor people,” he said, making it clear that he would come out in support of goods train.
It is to be noted that while the western part of the state is already on the railway map, the eastern part of Khasi-Jaintia Hills region has been denied the benefits of the railway project by pressure groups who fear that introduction of railways will invite influx into the state. Work on the vexed Tetelia-Byrnihat railway line has remained halted for years due to opposition from pressure groups.
Out of the total length of 21 km, only around two kilometers fall under the jurisdiction of Meghalaya.
The proposed railway line up to Shillong has also been hanging fire since the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council has refused to issue the mandatory no objection certificate for the project.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma had, earlier, batted for introduction of goods train services till Byrnihat in Ri Bhoi, citing the rich economic dividends being enjoyed by the people of Garo Hills after introduction of railways in the western region of the state.
Expressing hope that the same could be replicated in Byrnihat with goods train services, Sangma said, “There is clearly an economic advantage and people of Garo Hills have felt this advantage without concern over the illegal immigration aspect.”
