Train service to boost M'laya economy, says hopeful CM

A day after Railway Minister Sadananda Gowda announced the first passenger train in Meghalaya, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said the introduction of rail-head in Meghalaya would boost the economy of the landlocked state.
"The introduction of the train is an opportune time for the people to derive maximum benefits in terms of goods and services transportation and this should generate interest in other parts as well," Chief Minister Mukul Sangma told PTI. "I foresee a positive effect for the economy as well as transportation in the entire state is dependent on roads. I expect changes in the mindset of the people in the near future after this," he said. The train would connect Mendipathar in North Garo Hills region of the state with Guwahati in Assam on a daily basis. The distance between the two destinations is 131 km. Meghalaya has been without any rail-head since it attained statehood in 1972 in the wake of stiff opposition from local pressure groups for fear of influx of outsiders.
In this regard, the Chief Minister assured that necessary steps will be taken into account to ensure that the rail services do not have an adverse impact on the entry of outsiders. "Necessary checks and measures will be put in place to ensure that the concerns of the groups and all are addressed in right earnest and we are hopeful that a proper mechanism and effective structure will be put in place," he said.