Blockade on the Lalmonirhat-Burimari railway line has disrupted train services for six consecutive days, impacting daily travel and increasing hardships for passengers and local communities. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Blockade on the Lalmonirhat-Burimari railway line has disrupted train services for six consecutive days, impacting daily travel and increasing hardships for passengers and local communities
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Hundreds of people from various professions gathered at Patgram railway station to demand a direct launch of the Burimari Express from Burimari station to Dhaka. They rallied under the Patgram Unnayon Sangram Parishad, gaining wide support.

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Authorities from the Western Zone Railway suspended all local and express trains along the route, citing safety concerns amid the growing protests. Passengers heavily dependent on this service have voiced frustration.

Although the government introduced the Burimari Express after a 13-year wait on March 12, 2024, operations shifted abruptly to Lalmonirhat a day later. This decision forced travelers to use a shuttle service between Burimari and Lalmonirhat.

Earlier protests already warned officials of mounting dissatisfaction. Residents approached the railway division multiple times but received only promises with no visible actions, intensifying the current blockade.

Impact of the Blockade on Passengers and Local Economy

The Lalmonirhat-Burimari corridor serves hundreds of passengers daily, many of whom travel to India and Bhutan for medical treatment and tourism. They prefer trains because fares are affordable and journeys more comfortable.

Travelers and emergency workers now suffer significant delays. Local resident Moazzem Hossen highlighted that Burimari’s strategic position near the Changrabandha border makes the train service crucial for cross-border movement.

Authorities Respond to the Blockade but Challenges Remain

A source at the Lalmonirhat Railway Division revealed that outdated infrastructure at 13 stations on the route hampers the operation of direct express services. Most stations require technical upgrades for full functionality.

ATJ Siddique, head of the Patgram Unnayon Sangram Parishad, warned of broader road and rail blockades if demands go unmet. Meanwhile, Abdullah Al Mamun, Divisional Commercial Officer, stated that preparations are progressing.

Locomotive shortages continue to delay restoration. However, if protesters withdraw, authorities expect to resume normal services swiftly, easing the growing pressure on travelers.

Source: thefinancialexpress.com.bd

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