Protesters stage demo in Rajshahi blocking railway tracks, demanding station renovation, intercity train stop
Rail communication disrupted between Rajshahi and the rest of the country
Local residents of Nandangachhi in Charghat upazila of Rajshahi staged a protest by blocking the railway line, demanding an intercity train stop and renovation of the railway station.
As a result, several trains have come to a halt near the station, including the Sagardari Express heading from Rajshahi toward Khulna, and the Dhaka-bound Madhumati, Banalata, and Silk City Express trains.
This has disrupted train communication between Rajshahi and the rest of the country.
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Passengers returning to Dhaka and other destinations after Eid are facing severe suffering, and train schedules may be disrupted.
On Wednesday (June 11) around 6:30am, protesters blocked both ends of the station using red flags, halting train movement.
They then staged a sit-in protest and displayed banners, announcing they would continue the movement until their demands are met.
The protesters specifically demand the Silk City Express, Sagardari Express, Barendra Express, and Dhalarchar Express trains make stops at Nandangachhi station and that the station be renovated.
Nandangachhi station was established in 1929. This nearly century-old station ceased operations toward the end of 2015.
Before its closure, the station had 12 staff members. Now, only one porter remains employed. Currently, only two local trains stop here.
The platform has a roof, and although intercity trains don't officially stop, they sometimes pause for crossings.
Regarding the issue, Sagardari train guard Mojibud Doulla stated that he was unaware of the protest before the train's departure and that the matter has been reported to the authorities.
Previously on 1 May, thousands of people held a similar protest, stopping intercity trains with the same demands.
During that time, the Barendra Express and local mail trains running between Rajshahi and Chilahati were halted during the demonstrations.
