Meghalaya: Mendipathar MLA urges expansion of railway network across Garo Hills

CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: In a strong push for regional connectivity and economic growth, Mendipathar legislator Marthon Sangma has called for the urgent expansion of the Mendipathar railway station’s network to other parts of the Garo Hills. He argued that despite years of railway service, there has been “zero influx” into the area.

Sangma’s remarks come amid renewed discussions on rail infrastructure in Meghalaya, where connectivity remains a politically sensitive issue due to concerns over migration and land rights.

Highlighting the economic benefits brought by the railway link, Sangma said, “Now my people can bring their produce from Mendipathar to Guwahati at a very minimal cost. Women are finding it easier to conduct business in Guwahati, and some have even expanded their ventures to Dimapur because Mendipathar is connected to the railway network. People from other parts of the Garo Hills also want similar facilities so they can transport their produce to Guwahati and grow their businesses. The expansion of the Mendipathar railway station to other parts of the Garo Hills is now necessary.”

Addressing concerns over potential migration, Sangma dismissed fears raised by groups in the Khasi-Jaintia Hills, stating that Meghalaya’s constitutional safeguards remain strong. “In Meghalaya, we have mechanisms to control influx. Under the Sixth Schedule, land cannot be sold to non-tribals, so there is a system in place. Nobody talks about influx here, and till today there has been zero influx in Mendipathar. I don’t think it will happen in the future either because of the Land Transfer Act. The local people have no complaints,” he said.

The legislator also revealed ongoing discussions with the railway department to extend connectivity beyond Guwahati. “The government is in talks with the railway department so that trains could connect not only to Guwahati but also to Kolkata, Delhi, and other destinations. This would be even more beneficial for the people of the Garo Hills. The department has yet to make a decision but has assured that it will be done in due course. I have already written to the railway department,” Sangma said, reaffirming his commitment to making the project a reality for the region’s benefit.

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