Guwahati, Feb 1 (MExN): TR Zeliang, member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, today attended the meeting of NE MPs from all the NE states at the NE Frontal Railways Headquarters at Maligaon, Guwahati, to discuss development and advancement of the Railways department in the Northeast, Lumding division. The meeting, which was chaired by the General Manager Indian Railways, Lumding division, Northeast Zone, was called to discuss mainly issues pertaining to the Foothill Railways Network, which is the main link for commerce and communication.
In his presentation, TR Zeliang said at present there is only one major railway station and that the railway tracks passing through Nagaland was a meager 10 kms. The MP also mentioned that the Assam Arrakan belt (in geographical terms) had much potential for Industrial growth, due to its rich mineral resources, especially the areas bordering Assam and Manipur.
Zeliang also pointed out that as per a preliminary survey undertaken recently, a distance of about 200 kms could be covered by a new railway network, thus making it more accessible and connectivity enhanced. The areas mentioned for this network are Chumukedima, Nuiland, Marachu (Merapani), Changpang, Tuli, Naginimora, Tizit, Jalukie and Kohima. Quoting the MP, “If this area is given more importance and the railway network expedited, there is much potential for productivity, increased trade and commerce, thus opening up numerous windows for even export and import.”
MP Zeliang also stated this would also link all the northeastern states which would be very beneficial for the populace, since the majority are living ‘hand to mouth’ and that railway is the cheapest mode of transport, which can be afforded by both the rich and the poor. It is also a fact that this region has been identified by various departments, for its rich deposits of lime stones, granite marble, nickel-cobalt-chromium magnate, metals-gold-silver-platinum and other precious stones. “Since this region also falls under the ophiolite belt, it can be further extended to Myanmar, which will serve as a gateway to South Asia, he stated.
