CPI(M) warns of agitation movement for rail services in Tripura

Agartala, Sep 19 (UNI) Ruling left front in Tripura today threatened to launch mass movement against the Centre unless it starts commercial railway services from Agartala soon.

The CPI(M) leaders accused Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Railway Minister Lalu Prasad of unnecessary delay in launching train service from here to link the state with rest of the country.

The leaders said the trial run of engines and three bogies was successful and the railway safety commissioner, who visited the state in July, had certified the new line as suitable for regular service.

Following Safety Commission's clearance, CPM MP and Chairman of Railway Consultative Committee Basudeb Aachariya had taken up the issue with the railway ministry but there was no progress so far, which enraged the Left front.

Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) and Students Federation of India (SFI), students wing of Left parties recently organised demonstration on all 18-railway stations between Agartala and Ambassa in protest against the delay.

''We are protesting against the way the UPA government has kept the railway inauguration hanging without any rhyme or reason'', said DYFI supporters while warning to intensify the agitation if their demand was not fulfilled soon.

Tripura government was looking forward to the formal inauguration of the service on August 15 but it was postponed, as the Prime Minister was unable to attend the ceremony.

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