Now Meghalaya Chief Minister D.D. Lapang proposes that the Centre set up a railhead in his state and extend the existing lines from Assam to certain areas in addition.

The Centre had earlier agreed in principle to extend an existing line from Lumding to some towns in the Garo Hills in Southern Meghalaya. It had also cleared a proposal to extend rail connection to Byrnihat on the Assam-Meghalaya border. From Byrnihat, there was also a proposal to extend services to Shillong about 150 kilometres away.

Guwahati-based media reports said that some survey work had been done, but more would be needed to extend rail services through the hilly terrain. Mr. Lapang held talks with Union Minister for DONER, the ministry devoted to the development of the NE States, Mr. B.K. Handique, recently.

Land acquisition problems on the Assam side of Byrnihat had held up progress on the project, but the issue would now be taken up with the Chief Minister of Assam, to expedite matters.

A section among Meghalaya-based political parties and groups had opposed the introduction of railways into their state out of fears that “outsiders” from the mainland would simply swamp their state. It remains to be seen whether such opposition resurfaces again now, when economic development and integration is the new mantra all over the world. (IPA)