Train Services Affected in Northeast Due to Landslides

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Railway workers clearing tracks after landslide as train services disrupted in Northeast
Railway teams work to remove debris after landslides disrupt train services in Assam
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For the third consecutive day, train services disrupted in Northeast India have left hundreds of passengers stranded, while authorities continue restoration work across the affected zones. Heavy rainfall triggered landslides in several parts of Assam and Meghalaya, blocking vital railway tracks and halting several passenger and freight trains.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has confirmed that restoration efforts are underway, with teams working around the clock to clear debris and ensure safe passage. However, full resumption of services is likely to take more time, depending on weather conditions and ground stability.

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Train services disrupted in Northeast due to rainfall

The recent spell of torrential rain caused major damage to the Lumding–Badarpur and Silchar–Guwahati railway routes. These tracks connect the Barak Valley and Tripura with the rest of Assam and India. Due to landslides and track washouts, multiple trains have been cancelled, short-terminated, or diverted.

On July 8, the NFR suspended services on the affected sections. Since then, at least 14 passenger trains, including Silchar-Guwahati Express and Agartala-Sealdah Kanchanjunga Express, have been affected. Thousands of passengers were left stranded in stations such as Badarpur, Silchar, and Lumding.

Many travelers had to arrange alternate transportation at high costs. In some cases, buses were deployed by local administrations to ease the situation. However, connectivity remained limited due to waterlogged roads and blocked highways.

Restoration work continues despite fresh challenges

The railway department has deployed workers and machines to remove soil, boulders, and debris from the tracks. Officials confirmed that at least three major landslide zones were identified between Ditokcherra and Mahur in Assam’s Dima Hasao district. In some areas, the tracks were buried under several feet of mud.

Moreover, the Silchar-Lumding route continues to pose risks due to unstable hill slopes. Although no injuries have been reported, engineers are closely monitoring the areas before resuming traffic.

Divisional Railway Manager of Lumding Division, Mr. Surendra Kumar, stated, “We are making every effort to restore the routes. Safety remains our top priority. Teams are working non-stop despite weather challenges.”

Due to the difficult terrain and ongoing rain, progress has been slow. The India Meteorological Department has predicted more rainfall for the region over the next 48 hours, which could further delay full restoration.

Impact on passengers and freight movement

The train services disrupted in Northeast have affected more than just passenger travel. Freight movement carrying essentials such as food, medicine, fuel, and cement has also slowed down. Local businesses and suppliers in Barak Valley and Tripura are already reporting delays in delivery and rising transport costs.

A trader in Silchar mentioned, “With no trains running and roadways damaged, we are facing a serious supply issue. Transportation costs have doubled.”

Passengers who were planning to travel to Kolkata, Guwahati, or Agartala have been forced to postpone their journeys. Some are stuck at railway stations, relying on community support for food and water. The Railways and local authorities have set up temporary relief counters at key stations to help stranded travelers.

Government monitoring and alternative steps

The Ministry of Railways and the Assam government are jointly monitoring the situation. Senior officials are in touch with district administrations to coordinate relief and repair work.

Railway helpline numbers have been activated, and updated schedules are being shared regularly. In addition, Indian Railways has announced a refund for passengers affected by cancellations and delays.

Meanwhile, discussions are on to explore long-term solutions to such recurring disruptions. One option under review is slope stabilization and drainage strengthening on vulnerable tracks in hilly regions.

Conclusion

As train services disrupted in Northeast enter the third day, the incident underlines the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather. While the Railways and administration are making steady efforts, passengers and local businesses continue to suffer the consequences.

Experts emphasize the need for better rail infrastructure in the Northeast. With monsoons becoming more unpredictable due to climate change, investment in resilient transport systems is essential for the region’s development and connectivity.

The situation remains tense but hopeful. If the weather permits and ground conditions stabilize, partial services may resume in the next two days. Until then, passengers are advised to stay updated and avoid non-essential travel.

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