Jharia Outrage: Railway Reservation Counter Moving to Pathardih
The residents, passengers, and business community of Jharia are expressing intense opposition to the railway administration's decision to relocate the local railway reservation counter to Pathardih. The move has sparked significant concern regarding the accessibility of essential services for the local population.
Safety Concerns Drive Relocation Decision
The decision was finalized during a two-day permanent negotiation meeting held within the Dhanbad Division. The meeting was chaired by Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Akhilesh Mishra and attended by representatives of the East Central Railway Employees Union.
According to railway officials, the relocation is a necessary measure due to the precarious condition of the current infrastructure. The Jharia reservation office building is situated in a high-risk blasting zone, and the structure is reportedly in a dilapidated state. Officials emphasized that the roof faces an imminent danger of collapse, making the current location unsafe for both staff and the public.
Local Groups Threaten Protests
The announcement has not been well-received by the community. Local business organizations have formally demanded that the administration withdraw the shifting order. They have warned that if the decision is not rescinded, they will initiate a phased protest movement against the move.
The Jharia Coalfield Bachao Samiti has also condemned the decision, labeling it an injustice to the local people. To prevent the loss of this vital service, the committee has appealed for urgent intervention from:
- Railway officials
- The Chief Minister of Jharkhand
- The Central Government
Administrative Updates and Festive Timings
During the same meeting, authorities also addressed several other administrative concerns, including the maintenance of railway quarters, pending employee allowances, and the need to enhance running room facilities.
Asansol Division: Revised PRS Timings
In a separate update affecting the nearby Asansol Division of the Eastern Railway, the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) offices will operate under revised timings due to the upcoming Durga Puja and Diwali 2026 festivities. Between October 19 and November 8, 2026, these offices will function from 8 AM to 2 PM. However, regular ticket booking counters in the division will continue to follow their standard hours of operation.