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The NFR administration has reportedly discontinued the regular DEMU passenger train operating between Dibrugarh and Dangari from May 1,

Doomdooma, May 15:  A wave of discontent is rising in Upper Assam following the cessation of passenger train services on the historic Dibru-Sadiya railway route. Student organizations, rail passenger associations, and local inhabitants have expressed their intent to protest if the services are not reinstated promptly.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has reportedly halted the regular DEMU passenger train numbered 75904/75905 that ran between Dibrugarh and Dangari since May 1, coinciding with International Workers' Day.

This decision has sparked significant backlash, with critics claiming that the historic railway line has been intentionally overlooked despite substantial investments by the central government in railway infrastructure upgrades nationwide.

Originally constructed by the Assam Railway and Trading Company between 1881 and 1882, the Dibru-Sadiya railway line, now referred to as the Makum-Saikhowa route, is recognized as the oldest railway corridor in the Northeast.

Critics have accused senior railway officials from outside the state, stationed in the Tinsukia Railway Division, of systematically diminishing the significance of this heritage rail route.

Public frustration has escalated in the Sadiya, Doomdooma, Makum, and Digboi Assembly constituencies within Tinsukia district. Leaders from the Assam Rail Passengers’ Association and various organizations have criticized the railway authorities for discontinuing the service without any public announcement.

The Dangari and Doomdooma branches of the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) have also strongly condemned the railway administration, threatening to initiate democratic protests if services are not restored swiftly. AASU representatives emphasized the necessity of preserving the heritage of this historic railway route and reinstating rail connectivity for the public's benefit.

Reports indicate that local residents are gearing up to initiate a mass movement, potentially surrounding the office of the Divisional Railway Manager of the Tinsukia Railway Division in protest against the service suspension.

The protesting groups have also called for the extension of the railway line from Dangari towards the old Saikhowaghat area adjacent to the Dibru-Saikhowa National Park.

Additionally, they are advocating for the restoration of rail connectivity from Dangari through Dibrugarh to Jorhat Town and the establishment of a comprehensive railway terminal near Saikhowaghat in the future.

By

Correspondent