Reported by Manoj Kumar Ojha
Tinsukia: Residents of Raja Aali’s Ward No. 3 in Assam’s Tinsukia have expressed concern after the Railway Department initiated steps to close a connecting road near the Tinsukia Temple area.
The proposed closure comes amid measures being taken at several locations following the electrification of railway routes between Makum and Dangari and between Makum and Ledo.
In Doomdooma, a railway crossing near Beesakopie Tea Factory was recently closed. The crossing connected NH-37 with the staff colony of Beesakopie Tea Estate, with only a narrow passage left open for pedestrians.
In Tinsukia, the road near the temple area connects Raja Aali with neighbouring localities and is used to access markets, schools, healthcare facilities and other services.
Residents said the route has been in use for years and that its closure would affect daily travel.
Local residents and members of various organisations staged a protest after learning about the proposed closure. They said the road is an important route for the area.
According to residents, the road is used daily by schoolchildren, office-goers, traders, elderly people and others. They said its closure without an alternative route would increase travel time and create difficulties for commuters.
Local representatives have urged the Railway Department to review the proposal and consider measures that address both railway safety requirements and public connectivity needs.