Nagaland: Rangapahar area residents threaten legal action over railway deaths

DIMAPUR — Residents of Rangapahar area have threatened legal action against the railway authorities over repeated fatal accidents, stating that more than 30 people have died along the stretch in the past two decades without adequate safety measures in place.

In a press release issued on Monday, the Concerned Citizens Forum, Rangapahar Crossing, stated that the continued loss of lives, along with the deaths of thousands of domestic animals, points to a failure to address known risks despite records of such incidents being available with the police.

The warning follows a series of recent fatalities, including the deaths of a husband and wife in separate train accidents within two months, and another man in a similar incident, which the forum said has heightened fear among residents.

According to the forum, Rangapahar, Thahekhu and Sangtamtilla villages, with a combined population of over 15,000, are divided by a railway line running through the area for more than 3 km. Residents are required to cross the tracks daily to access public places such as churches, temples and schools located on both sides.

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It stated that the absence of basic safety infrastructure such as foot overbridges or underground passages along this stretch has contributed to recurring fatal accidents involving both people and livestock.

The forum also flagged inadequate drainage along the railway tracks, which leads to flooding during the monsoon, adding that the situation could be addressed alongside safety concerns through timely intervention.

It warned that if prompt action is not taken, it will initiate legal proceedings to seek compensation for loss of lives, livestock and damages attributed to the railway authorities.