An eviction notice issued by the Tinsukia Railway Division has created deep concern among residents of Rupai Siding in Upper Assam. The division has asked people living near the railway track to remove their homes and shops within 15 days. The notice has come without any prior discussion with local residents, which has led to fear and uncertainty among hundreds of families.
Residents say that many of them have been living in the area for several decades and depend on small shops and daily-wage work for their livelihood. People said they were shocked when the eviction order was issued suddenly. Several families said that finding another place in such a short time would be almost impossible. They said they do not know where they will move or how they will earn once the eviction is carried out.
According to the notice, all structures built close to the railway line must be cleared as part of a railway safety measure and clearance work. This includes small houses, grocery shops and other small businesses that have grown around the Rupai Siding section over many years. Local shopkeepers said they would need much more time to shift goods and arrange a new location. 
Many residents have asked authorities to provide at least six months’ time, saying that 15 days is too short and does not take into account their financial condition. One of the shop owners told reporters that shifting a whole household and a shop in just two weeks was not practical. People also said that several families include elderly members and children, and moving them without proper planning would be very difficult.
The eviction notice has also raised questions in the area. Residents pointed out that similar settlements exist near railway tracks in Tinsukia, Makum, Hapjan and Doomdooma. However, action has been taken only in Rupai Siding at the moment.
