On 06 September 2022, Green Leaf Foundation, Gossaigaon and Gossaigaon Nava Jeevan Unnayan Mancha (GONJUM) jointly organized a public protest programme at Gossaigaon Hat Railway Station to raise several important demands related to railway connectivity and passenger facilities in the region.
The protest highlighted the urgent need for stoppage of important trains including the Kamrup Express and another south-bound train at Gossaigaon Hat Railway Station. The organizations also demanded the resumption of several express and passenger trains that had remained suspended since the COVID-19 pandemic period, including the Guwahati–Alipurduar Intercity Express and Shifung Express.
In addition to train services, the protest also focused on improving basic railway infrastructure and passenger amenities at the station. Major demands included:
- Stoppage of important express trains at Gossaigaon Hat Railway Station
- Resumption of suspended express and passenger train services
- Improvement of railway station infrastructure
- Provision of clean drinking water facilities at the station
- Opening of two ticket counters instead of one for public convenience
- Continuous operation of ticket counters
- Development of proper parking facilities outside the railway station
The protest programme was supported by the Assam Railway Passengers Association and the Bodoland Association for All Round Development. During the programme, awareness leaflets containing the railway demands were distributed among passengers and local residents.
As part of the initiative, GONJUM and Green Leaf Foundation jointly submitted two memoranda to higher railway authorities through the Station Superintendent of Gossaigaon Hat Railway Station on behalf of the people of the region.
The programme reflected the collective concern of local residents regarding transportation difficulties and emphasized the importance of improved railway connectivity for the socio-economic development of Gossaigaon and surrounding areas.
Impact:
- Raised public awareness regarding railway connectivity and passenger issues.
- Highlighted infrastructure and transportation concerns before railway authorities.
- Strengthened community participation in public advocacy initiatives.
- Promoted collective civic action for regional development.