News Brief

Himanta Biswa Sarma meeting Ashwini Vaishnaw
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi on Sunday (2 November), urging for an expanded rail network across the state.
The meeting, which lasted around 25 minutes, focused on key proposals aimed at boosting both intra-state and cross-border transport infrastructure.
Sarma requested the introduction of three new Amrit Bharat trains to and from Assam to improve accessibility for passengers and support economic activity in the region.
He also proposed a new railway line linking Umrangso in Dima Hasao district with Lanka in Hojai district.
The proposed link, he said, would enhance connectivity between the hilly and central parts of Assam while opening new avenues for trade and tourism.
In addition, Sarma sought additional stoppages for major trains passing through Assam to make railway services more accessible for local commuters across the state.
Following the discussions, Sarma noted that the railway minister had consented to action on the proposed initiatives — including the introduction of the new Amrit Bharat trains, progress on the Umrangso–Lanka rail link, and expedited work on the Kokrajhar–Gelephu line.
Vaishnaw reportedly responded positively to all the proposals and assured that the ministry would take necessary steps to implement them soon.