Persistent heavy rainfall has triggered widespread disruption to train services across Assam since July 19, 2026. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has been forced to implement significant operational changes, including cancellations, diversions, and short-terminations, following the overflowing of the Dikhow River in the Sivasagar district. The flooding has inundated the Simaluguri railway station yard, nearby tracks, and the railway colony, rendering the Simaluguri–Namtiali and Simaluguri–Selenghat sections unsafe for travel.
- Train movement suspended: Operations in affected sections are halted until further notice for passenger safety.
- Diversions and Cancellations: Six long-distance trains from Dibrugarh and Tinsukia are diverted via Rangiya–Rangapara. Numerous local services, including the Tinsukia-Jorhat Town Passenger and Ledo-Guwahati Intercity, are cancelled.
- Operational Adjustments: Ten trains have been short-terminated or short-originated at stations like Namtiali, Selenghat, and Mariani Junction.
- Passenger Support: NFR is providing food, water, refunds, and has established station Help Desks.
- Alternative Transport: ASTC is providing road connectivity from Namtiali to Sibsagar Town, with a special train planned for stranded passengers.
Restoration Efforts and Passenger Care
NFR Chief Public Relations Officer Kapinjal Kishore Sharma confirmed that the safety of passengers remains the top priority. While railway teams and necessary equipment have been dispatched to the site, officials noted that a full assessment of the infrastructure damage can only be conducted once the floodwaters recede. The situation is being monitored on a real-time basis to ensure a swift return to normalcy.
To mitigate the impact on commuters, Indian Railways is coordinating closely with the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) to ensure that stranded passengers have access to road transport. Furthermore, the railway is facilitating full ticket refunds for those affected by the sudden service cancellations. Passengers are advised to check the latest updates through official NFR channels before heading to the stations, as the restoration timeline remains subject to weather conditions.