Singhbhum Chamber holds dharna in Jamshedpur over train delays, cancellations

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur: In a strong show of concern for public inconvenience and economic losses, the Singhbhum Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) organized a one-day dharna at Veer Kunwar Singh Chowk (Ghoda Chowk), Jugsalai, demanding prompt action from the South Eastern Railway regarding the prolonged delays and frequent cancellations of trains passing through Tatanagar.

The protest, held under the banner “Wake Up, Railways!”, was aimed at highlighting the troubles faced by passengers, including businessmen, students, job seekers, women, children, and senior citizens, due to erratic train schedules over the past several months.

SCCI President Vijay Anand Moonka, addressing the gathering, emphasized that train delays ranging between 10 to 12 hours had become routine, severely impacting the public and eroding confidence in the railway system.

“Business meetings are getting cancelled, students are missing exams and interviews, and families are stranded for hours. We support railway development, but not at the cost of such widespread disruption,” he stated.

Honorary General Secretary Manav Kedia shared that the Chamber had previously written several letters to the Railway Minister, Railway Board, and senior officials, but with no visible improvement.

“Through this peaceful protest, we aim to send a stronger message. This is not just about business losses—it is a social responsibility,” he said.

Chamber Vice President Deepak Bhalotia raised serious concerns over freight trains being given priority over passenger trains, alleging that this was a major cause of delays.

“Women, children, and the elderly are suffering the most. The Railways must take passenger comfort seriously,” he asserted.

The protest saw participation from several notable organizations and individuals, including ASIA’s General Secretary Praveen Gutgutia, Advocate Rajiv Agarwal, Chamber VP CA Anil Ringasia, Treasurer,  representatives from Gujarati Sanatan Samaj, Red Cross, Jain Samaj Bistupur, and Satyanarayan Agarwal.

Additionally, groups like Commercial Tax Bar Association, Marwari Yuva Manch (Jamshedpur & Steel City Branches), and Rani Sati Satsang Samiti also joined hands in solidarity.

The Chamber strongly urged the Railway authorities to take immediate steps to ensure timely train operations, prioritizing passenger convenience and safety over freight movement where required.