Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 24: Union Minister of State for Railways V Somanna on Saturday said that the Railways will shortly invite tenders for the proposed Mangaluru-Sringeri-Shivamogga railway line project, estimated to cost around Rs 3,300 crore.

Speaking to reporters after reviewing development works at Mangaluru Junction railway station under the Amrit Bharat scheme, the minister said the Final Location Survey (FLS) for the 332-km railway project has already been completed.

He said the proposed railway line is expected to improve connectivity between coastal Karnataka, Malnad and interior parts of the state, besides supporting economic and tourism growth in the region.

Somanna also said that a feasibility study is under way for establishing a railway station near Mangaluru International Airport to improve travel convenience for passengers.

On the Hassan-Mangaluru railway line doubling project, the minister stated that alignment fixation and preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) are currently being examined.

The survey work for laying third and fourth railway lines between Shoranur and Mangaluru has also been completed and the project is expected to be taken up in the near future, he added.

Replying to queries regarding the proposed railway crossing at Arebetta on the Subrahmanya Road-Sakleshpura Ghat stretch, Somanna said the land in the area is not suitable for such construction and a fresh proposal would be sought.

Highlighting railway investments in Karnataka, the minister said railway projects worth nearly Rs 52,000 crore are currently in progress across the state, including 14 new railway projects.

“Karnataka is an important state for the Union government and priority is being given to railway infrastructure and connectivity projects across the state,” Somanna said.