Special Correspondent
Dibrugarh: The Indian Railways, the pride of the nation, has been struggling to keep up with the demands of a rapidly growing population. Nowhere is this more evident than in the town of Dibrugarh in Assam, where the railways are maintaining not one, but two railway stations, despite the fact that one of them has been almost rendered obsolete.
A few years ago, a brand new railway station was built on the outskirts of the town, complete with modern amenities and improved infrastructure. However, instead of shutting down the old station, the railways decided to maintain both, resulting in a colossal waste of resources.
Local people allege that the old Dibrugarh town railway station, located in the heart of the town, has become a relic of the past. Its cramped platforms, outdated facilities, and inadequate parking have made it a nightmare for commuters. The station’s proximity to residential areas also means that the constant noise and chaos have become a source of frustration for locals. “The old station’s location is particularly problematic, as it passes directly through the heart of the town where schools and colleges are densely packed. The constant flow of trains and pedestrians creates a hazardous environment for students. The noise pollution from trains also disrupts the learning environment, making it difficult for students to focus. Furthermore, the station’s proximity to educational institutions increases the risk of accidents as students often have to navigate through crowded tracks and cross the tracks to reach their schools.
It’s alarming that the railways have neglected this critical issue for so long, putting the safety and education of thousands of students at risk. Shutting down the old station is not only a matter of convenience but also a necessary step to ensure the safety and well-being of the town’s residents, particularly its students.
Meanwhile, the new station, with its sleek design and modern amenities, lies underutilised, with many trains still chugging into the old station. This not only causes inconvenience to passengers but also results in significant revenue losses for the railways. It’s high time the railways took a pragmatic decision and shut down the old station, diverting all traffic to the new one. By doing so, the Railways can not only save precious resources but also provide commuters with a safer, more convenient, and more comfortable travel experience. It’s actually a no-brainer, said a resident.
Dibrugarh residents have urged the railway authorities to take immediate action and shut down the old station, saying it’s time to put the needs of commuters first and make the railways more efficient, more convenient, and more passenger-friendly.
The clock is ticking. Will the Railways rise to the challenge? That’s the million-dollar question.
Also Read: Assam: 7 Women Among Top 10 in CCE 2023; Chiranjeev Phukan Tops Results
Also Watch: