Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has clarified that the current infrastructure of coach manufacturing units in India is adequate, and hence, there is no immediate plan to establish a new railway coach factory in Assam. This statement came in response to a question raised in the Lok Sabha regarding the possibility of setting up a coach factory in Kokrajhar as part of the Bodoland Accord commitments. Vaishnaw stated that the existing and upcoming coach production units are sufficient to meet the national rolling stock demand.
Kokrajhar Factory Proposal Linked to Bodoland Accord
Member of Parliament Joyant Basumatari had inquired about the proposal for a coach factory in Kokrajhar, citing its significance for the development of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR). The request was grounded in the promises made under the Bodoland Accord, which aimed at socio-economic upliftment and industrial development in the BTR. The proposed factory was seen as a potential catalyst for employment and regional growth. However, the minister responded that such facilities are set up based on overall national requirements, not solely on regional demands.
Government’s Focus on National-Level Planning
In his written reply, Vaishnaw emphasized that the decision to establish coach factories is made keeping in mind the national demand for rolling stock, technical feasibility, and long-term sustainability. He reiterated that simply setting up factories based on regional requests could lead to underutilization and inefficiencies. The central government continues to adopt a strategic approach where new industrial units are considered after thorough analysis of their necessity and impact across the railway network.
Wagon Overhauling Workshop Approved in Kokrajhar
Although the coach factory is not being considered at present, the Railway Minister did offer some positive news for Assam. He informed the House that a Wagon Periodic Overhauling (POH) Workshop has been approved at Bashabari in the Kokrajhar district. The facility, which will be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹256.36 crore, is expected to create job opportunities and boost the local economy. This workshop will serve as a vital center for maintaining freight wagons and ensuring operational efficiency across the railway network.
A Balancing Act Between Regional Aspirations and National Planning
The Centre’s stance reflects a broader balancing act between regional aspirations and national strategic planning. While development of the BTR remains a priority under the Bodoland Accord, the government also has to consider national demand patterns and infrastructure optimization. The approval of the overhauling workshop signals a commitment to the region’s development, even if a coach factory is not in the immediate pipeline. The government’s long-term vision continues to be the creation of a robust, efficient, and equitable railway infrastructure across the country.
