Heavy monsoon rains in Assam have caused severe flooding, affecting over 22,000 people across six districts. The situation worsened as a railway bridge over the Simon River in Dhemaji district was damaged, leading to the suspension of train services on key routes. Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) took immediate action to stop operations to ensure passenger safety.
Which train services are affected and what are the alternatives?
The rail link between Archipathar and Simen Chapari stations is suspended indefinitely. Additionally, services on the Murkongselek-Silapathar route under Tinsukia Division are stopped until further notice. To help passengers, NFR has arranged buses between Murkongselek and Silapathar and set up help desks at Dhemaji, Silapathar, and Murkongselek stations.
| Cancelled/Affected Trains | Route |
|---|---|
| 15895 Rangia-Murkongselek Express | Rangia to Murkongselek |
| 15896 Murkongselek-Rangia Express | Murkongselek to Rangia |
| 05862 Dekagaon-Rangia Special | Dekagaon to Rangia |
How did the bridge damage happen and what is the current status?
The railway bridge, originally built in 1965 and later converted to broad gauge, suffered a pillar instability due to severe riverbank erosion. Because train operations were already halted due to high flood levels, no passengers were injured and no trains were damaged. The Assam government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, is monitoring the situation and deploying resources for relief and rehabilitation in the most affected districts.
Which districts are most impacted by the floods?
- Dhemaji: Most affected with 15,483 people impacted.
- Other Districts: Nalbari, Dibrugarh, Chirang, Lakhimpur, and Kokrajhar.
- Total Impact: 22,124 people affected as per ASDMA data.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can passengers check their train status?
Passengers can check the current status of their trains through the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) or visit the help desks at Dhemaji, Silapathar, and Murkongselek stations.
What arrangements have been made for travel between Murkongselek and Silapathar?
Since train services are suspended on this route, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has arranged buses to transport passengers between Murkongselek and Silapathar.