Meghalaya Minister Rakkam Sangma Submits Memorandum to CM for Rail Line to Dhaka
First Published: 5th March, 2025 12:27 IST
“Bangladesh is our market in all respects, rail connectivity will be a game changer,” Rakkam A Sangma said.
Meghalaya Cabinet Minister Rakkam A Sangma, along with MLAs Kartush R Marak and Sengchim N Sangma, has submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma urging him to extend the railway line from Mendipathar to Baghmara, aiming for a future connection to Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Highlighting the economic benefits of better connectivity, Rakkam Sangma said that Bangladesh serves as the natural market for trade and commerce in Garo Hills due to its proximity. However, political boundaries have restricted economic opportunities. He stressed that Meghalaya’s agricultural and natural resources need better access to markets, and a railway link would boost trade, tourism, and overall economic growth.
Acknowledging the current political situation in Bangladesh, Rakkam Sangma expressed confidence that conditions would improve, making cross-border trade more viable. “This situation in Bangladesh will not last forever. Once the political climate improves, trade opportunities will open up,” he stated.
He underscored the need for railway expansion to Baghmara via Nangol or Tura, calling it a game changer. “The three MLAs have submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister. The government will decide the route, but if we get this connectivity, it will be a huge boost. The Chief Minister will take up the matter with the Railway Ministry, and we are hopeful. It may not happen immediately, but it will certainly happen in the near future,” Sangma asserted.
He also stressed the broader economic and strategic benefits of linking the railway to Dhaka. “The Government of India must discuss this with Bangladesh. A rail connection from Baghmara to Dhaka will strengthen trade and tourism in the entire Northeast. Before Independence, Garo Hills had strong trade links with neighboring regions, and this can be revived,” he added.
When asked about concerns in Khasi and Jaintia Hills regarding railway expansion, Sangma dismissed any opposition, stating that the people of Garo Hills fully support the project. “Mendipathar is already connected by rail, and people here welcome railway expansion,” he stated.
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