AJYCP Stages Protest in Golaghat, Seeks Enhanced Railway Connectivity

GOLAGHAT: The Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) on Tuesday staged a three-hour sit-in protest near the office of the District Commissioner in Golaghat, pressing for urgent improvements in transportation services and the activation of trade infrastructure in the region.

The demonstration focused on three major demands: the inclusion of a stop for the Rajdhani Express at Furkating Junction, a halt for the Intercity Express at Kamarbandha station, and the launch of regular ASTC bus services connecting Merapani, a key area along the Assam-Nagaland border, with Golaghat town. Addressing the media, AJYCP leader Jitul Rajkhowa said the people of Golaghat continue to face severe hardships due to poor railway connectivity. “Important trains like the Rajdhani Express do not stop at local stations, compelling residents to travel long distances to access basic transport services,” he noted. The protesters argued that the lack of proper train connectivity has become a major inconvenience for students studying outside the state and professionals who frequently commute to urban centres. The absence of stops for key trains, they said, disrupts travel plans and adds unnecessary financial burden.

In addition to railway concerns, the AJYCP also demanded the introduction of Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) bus services from Merapani to Golaghat. Rajkhowa highlighted that Merapani is a growing commercial hub, but the lack of direct public transport hampers local mobility and trade. A significant point raised during the protest was the non-operational status of the Agar International Trade Centre at Dabidubi. Despite the completion of construction over a year ago, the centre remains inactive. AJYCP members, along with local agarwood traders, expressed deep disappointment over the delay, stressing that the centre has the potential to boost the local economy and benefit hundreds of traders.

The AJYCP urged the government to take swift action on all these issues and warned of intensified protests if their demands are not met promptly.