Mendipathar– In a milestone for railway connectivity in the Northeast, Indian Railways successfully delivered its first-ever freight consignment to Meghalaya, with a 21-wagon rake carrying foodgrains for the Food Corporation of India (FCI) arriving at Mendipathar railway station in North Garo Hills on February 4.
Officials confirmed that the freight train reached Mendipathar station at 9:20 AM and was placed for unloading 20 minutes later. This marks a significant step in enhancing freight movement in the state.
A spokesperson for Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “Mendipathar railway station is set to emerge as a vital hub for freight movement, significantly contributing to Meghalaya’s development and strengthening the railway network in the Northeast.”
Mendipathar station, which became operational 10 years ago, remains Meghalaya’s only railway station. While plans exist to extend the railway line to Byrnihat, near the Assam-Meghalaya border, and eventually to Shillong, the expansion has faced stiff resistance from local groups, particularly the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), citing concerns over increased migration into the state.
Despite the challenges, the successful freight delivery underscores the potential of railways in boosting Meghalaya’s economic and logistical network, offering efficient transportation for essential commodities in the region.
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