DCAS highlights efforts to restore Tuli passenger train

DIMAPUR, JUL 25 (NPN): Dimapur Concerned Ao Seniors (DCAS) has expressed optimism that the long-pending demand for restoration of passenger train services to Tuli was nearing fruition, citing sustained efforts by public bodies, elected representatives and the state government.
In a press release, DCAS convener Lulen Jamir said the movement began with a resolution adopted during the Tuli Town Golden Jubilee in 2018, when the public resolved to appeal to the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) for the revival of the Tuli-Mariani passenger train service. The responsibility of pursuing the matter was subsequently entrusted to DCAS.
Jamir said the Tuli district administration, erstwhile Tuli Town Development Committee, Tuli Area Development Committee, Tuli Area Joint Council, Langpangkong Tzükong Mungdang, Ao Senden and the Business Association of Nagaland had all contributed towards advancing the proposal.
He said that in May 2022, minister Metsübo Jamir and chief minister Neiphiu Rio raised the issue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which they proposed replacing the Tuli-Mariani passenger service with a Tuli-Guwahati service. The proposal was subsequently accepted.
According to DCAS, Rio later visited Tuli railway station in April 2024 and completed the necessary official formalities through the Nagaland Legislative Assembly and the NFR to facilitate further progress.
DCAS stated that a subsequent proposal sought the extension of the Mariani-Guwahati Intercity Broad Gauge Express (Train No. 15665) to Tuli, instead of introducing a new passenger service, describing it as a more convenient and economical option. DCAS also acknowledged the efforts of Lok Sabha MP S. Supongmeren Jamir, who has taken up the matter with the NFR and the Centre. It noted that MP recently visited Tuli railway station along with Tzüdikong Town ad hoc Town Committee chairman Putumeren and Tuli SDO (Civil) Nükshimatong before again raising the issue during the ongoing Parliament session.
The seniors’ body thanked all individuals and organisations that had contributed their time and efforts towards making the proposed Tuli-Guwahati Intercity passenger train service a reality.