DCCI opposes abrupt closure of Dimapur railway unloading facility

DIMAPUR, AUG 10 (NPN): Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) has urged the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) to reconsider the proposed closure of unloading operations at the existing railway goods facility in Dimapur and make alternative arrangements at the Food Corporation of India (FCI) siding to prevent disruption to the supply chain and a possible rise in commodity prices.
In a representation addressed to the divisional railway manager, Lumding division, NFR, the DCCI president and general secretary said the chamber supported railway modernisation but maintained that changes in goods-handling arrangements should be implemented gradually and only after viable alternatives are in place.
The representation referred to Circular dated August 7, 2026, regarding the proposed discontinuation of unloading operations at the existing facility.
DCCI said any sudden closure without a suitable alternative could have immediate economic consequences for businesses and consumers, particularly by increasing unloading, transportation and distribution costs.
It reminded that Dimapur serves as a major commercial and distribution centre for Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland, with substantial quantities of essential commodities and other goods entering the region through the railway network before being distributed to wholesalers, retailers and consumers.
The chamber said any disruption in unloading operations or increase in associated transportation costs would raise the landed cost of goods and could ultimately lead to higher retail prices.
DCCI said essential commodities, food items, construction materials and other daily necessities would be particularly affected, placing an additional burden on traders, small businesses, retailers and consumers.
The chamber also warned that the proposed change could disrupt established supply chains, increase operating costs, reduce the competitiveness of local businesses and cause delays in the availability of essential goods.
As an alternative, the chamber proposed that the FCI siding in Dimapur be considered as a temporary unloading point, subject to the necessary technical, operational, safety and administrative clearances from the competent railway authorities.
The chamber said such an arrangement would ensure continuity in goods movement while avoiding an abrupt disruption of existing supply chains and helping minimise additional logistics costs.
DCCI urged the railway authorities not to discontinue the existing unloading arrangement until a viable alternative was operational and capable of handling the volume of goods movement.
The chamber said decisions affecting the handling and movement of goods should take into account public interest, price stability, business continuity and the economic welfare of people dependent on Dimapur as a major commercial centre.
DCCI, therefore, sought urgent consideration of its representation and an early decision in the interest of the business community and the general public of Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland.