Siliguri, 30th December: Tensions have flared in the Tinbatti adjacent pipeline area of Ward No. 32 as residents, joined by their Councillor, protested against the construction of a wall on railway land. They argue that the wall, being built as per railway plans, will block traffic flow and create significant inconveniences.
Last week, Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb held discussions with railway officials, suggesting that building the wall on the opposite side would better serve the public. However, despite these discussions, the railway authorities allegedly began constructing the wall as per their original plan, with work on the pillars commencing on Sunday.
Reportedly, on Monday morning, Ward No. 32 Councillor Tapas Chatterjee joined residents in protesting the railway’s decision. The Councillor and residents halted construction work and sent the workers back. Chatterjee cautioned of escalating the protest into a larger movement if the railway does not reconsider its decision.