Nagpur>: Travel troubles hit the Winter Session even before it began, as widespread cancellations of IndiGo flights left legislators and officials scrambling for alternative routes to reach Nagpur. With air travel thrown into chaos, several MLAs were forced to switch to trains, road convoys, and even overnight buses to arrive in time for the December 8–14 session.
Sensing the mounting panic, Maharashtra Legislative Council Chairperson Ram Shinde on Sunday announced that special trains will run from Nagpur to Mumbai on December 14 and 15 to ensure smooth return travel after the session concludes.
“Many representatives struggled to get flights to Nagpur, and there was concern about getting back as well. The state government requested Railways for special trains, and they agreed. A nodal officer will coordinate with all MLAs to avoid further inconvenience,” Shinde informed the media at Vidhan Bhavan.
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The administration has also set up a monitoring mechanism to respond quickly to any travel-related issues during the session week.
Political tension simmering
Adding to the turbulence, opposition parties boycotted the Chief Minister’s customary tea party on Sunday, protesting the delay in appointing the Leader of the Opposition in both Houses. Shinde confirmed that a proposal has been received but said the decision requires further discussion.
Quashing rumours about shifting the venue due to ongoing expansion at Vidhan Bhavan, both Shinde and Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe asserted that Nagpur will continue to host the session as scheduled.
Vidarbha issues in focus
Shinde assured that matters concerning Vidarbha will be given top priority, particularly during Question Hour, and promised efforts to ensure meaningful debate despite the short 8-day schedule.
After a review meeting, Shinde and Gorhe carried out an inspection of both Houses and the supporting facilities to ensure full preparedness.
As winter winds sweep the Second Capital, it seems travel turbulence and political heat will make this session anything but routine.
