New Delhi, November 2 (IANS). Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav in New Delhi on Sunday. In this meeting he emphasized on expanding the railway network in Assam and strengthening the connectivity of the state.
The meeting, held at the official residence of the Railway Minister, lasted for about 25 minutes, in which both the leaders discussed in detail many important issues related to the Railways. Chief Minister Sarma made a special request to start three new Amrit Bharat trains going from Assam to other states.
The issue of international connectivity also figured prominently in the meeting. Sarma urged for early completion of the work on the proposed railway line from Kokrajhar to Gelephu Mindfulness City in Bhutan. This project will strengthen India-Bhutan cross border cooperation and promote trade, tourism and cultural exchange between the two countries. Gelephu City is Bhutan’s ambitious project, focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly development. Its completion will bring a revolutionary change in the connectivity of North-East India.
Additionally, the Chief Minister demanded more stoppages in major trains passing through Assam. He argued that this would provide convenience to local commuters, especially those in rural areas, who face inconvenience while traveling long distances. Sarma said the expansion of railways is essential for the economic development of Assam, as better connectivity will attract investment in industry, agriculture and tourism sectors.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav responded positively to all these proposals. He assured that the Railway Ministry will give priority to these suggestions and start implementation soon. Describing the meeting as ‘productive’, the minister said that connectivity of the north-eastern states is a priority of the central government. Sarma said the minister has expressed ‘courtesy consent’ to three new Amrit Bharat trains, Umrangso-Lanka rail link, speeding up of Kokrajhar-Gelephu line and additional halts.
After the meeting, Chief Minister Sarma shared his reaction on social media platform ‘X’. He wrote, “Had a very fruitful meeting with Minister Ashwini Vaishnav. We deliberated on key issues to expand railways in Assam and enhance overall connectivity for the people, including 3 new Amrit Bharat trains to and from Assam, a new rail link from the picturesque Umrangso town to Lanka in Hojai district, expediting the work of the new railway line from Kokrajhar to Gelephu Mindfulness City in Bhutan and all major railways passing through the state.” “The trains involve more stoppages in Assam.”
CM Sarma said that he is happy to inform that the Railway Minister has agreed to these working procedures.
–IANS
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