Meghalaya Minister Advocates Goods-Only Trains to Byrnihat Amid Influx Fears

Newly appointed Cabinet Minister Sosthenes Sohtun expressed support for limiting railway services on the Tetelia-Byrnihat line to freight trains only until reaching Byrnihat, in his Jirang constituency in Meghalaya.

The project has faced delays for the past seven to eight years due to opposition from local groups concerned about an influx of outsiders, despite only two kilometres of the track falling within Meghalaya's borders. These organisations have demanded safeguards like an inner line permit system before proceeding.

Opting for goods trains exclusively "would be ideal, but it hinges on the stance of the stakeholders and various groups," Sohtun told reporters. When questioned about the railway developments in Mendipathar, which have boosted the Garo Hills region, he suggested that if the infrastructure delivers clear advantages, the government and local stakeholders should convene to explore the possibilities.

Earlier, Timothy D. Shira, the newly inducted Tourism Minister and MLA from Resubelpara, highlighted the positive impacts of the North Garo Hills railway line, which extends benefits across Meghalaya beyond Mendipathar without the anticipated surge of non-locals. Shira pointed out that the line has streamlined the transport of essential goods to Shillong and other areas from Mendipathar. Moreover, it has provided Garo Hills farmers with direct market access in Guwahati, where they sell their produce.

Dismissing fears of demographic shifts, Shira emphasised that residents in North Garo Hills are vigilant and refrain from selling land to non-tribals. In contrast, he noted that western Meghalaya has seen non-tribal settlements due to less awareness about land protection.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has previously voiced frustration with the Meghalaya government's inaction in connecting Shillong to the national rail network. NFR sources alleged that corruption fuels resistance to three proposed projects in the Khasi-Jaintia Hills, with some politicians—many of whom own trucking businesses—opposing rail expansion to safeguard their commercial interests.

While the state government consistently underscores the importance of consulting communities before rail decisions, substantive dialogues with pressure groups have yet to materialise.