Surat Farmers protest New Railway Track between Hazira and Gothan

Surat : The recent notification issued by the Central Government regarding the construction of a new railway track from Gothan to Hazira in Surat has sparked concerns and protests among farmers in the region. The farmers claim that the new railway track primarily benefits large industries in Hazira, while they are being forced to sacrifice their land and livelihoods.

With the acquisition of 329 acres of land directly impacting over 300 farmers in 17 villages, the farming community is raising questions about the necessity and fairness of the project.

Farmers’ Concerns and Protests:

The affected farmers argue that the existing railway line serves the transportation needs of the Hazira region adequately and there is no apparent need for an additional railway track. They question why their lands are being targeted for acquisition when the current infrastructure can accommodate the anticipated demand. The new project threatens their agricultural activities, disrupting their lives and uprooting generations-old farming practices.

Previous Opposition and Ongoing Resistance:

The Gujarat Government had previously issued a notification for land acquisition related to the Hazira-Gothan railway line. However, the farmers’ strong opposition and protests compelled the government to halt the proceedings temporarily. Determined to protect their land and livelihood, the farmers are now gearing up for demonstrations and agitations in the coming days against the Central Government’s notification on the new railway line.

The Slogan of Resistance: ‘Jaan Denge, Zameen Nahi’:

Expressing their determination to safeguard their land, the farmers have coined a powerful slogan, “Jaan Denge, Zameen Nahi” (We will give our lives, but not our land). This rallying cry reflects their unwavering commitment to preserving their ancestral heritage and protecting their means of subsistence.

Farmers Unite at Khedut Samaj Gujarat:

In a show of solidarity, a significant number of farmers gathered at the office of Khedut Samaj Gujarat (KSG) in Jahangirpura. The presence of esteemed figures such as Jayeshbhai Patel, President of Gujarat Khedut Samaj, Rameshbhai Patel (Orma), President of South Gujarat Khedut Samaj, Ketanbhai Desai, President of Olpad Taluka Khedut Samaj, and numerous farmers underscored the collective determination to challenge the Central Government’s decision.

As the discontent among farmers grows, the issue of land acquisition for the new railway track remains a contentious topic. The farmers’ determination to protect their land and livelihoods highlights their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. The upcoming demonstrations and agitations indicate that the battle for their rights and their cherished agricultural practices is far from over.

“The plight of the poor farmers in Surat continues as the Central Government’s notification on the new railway track threatens their land and way of life” said Jayesh Patel, president of KSG. “We have raised a  slogan “Jaan Denge, Zameen Nahi,”  and the farmers are resolute in their opposition, ready to fight against the acquisition of their lands. The coming days will witness their determined efforts to protect their ancestral heritage and secure a future where their livelihoods are not sacrificed in the pursuit of industrial development.”