Pics: Nithin Pereira
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)
Udupi, Jul 17: "We will expedite the process of merging Konkan Railway with Indian Railways so that the region receives greater financial assistance from the central government and faster railway development," said Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP Kota Srinivas Poojary.
Speaking after inaugurating a newly constructed lift at the Indrali railway station in Udupi, built by Konkan Railway at a cost of approximately Rs 2.26 crore, the MP said, "Once Konkan Railway is merged with Indian Railways, we will be able to secure higher central funding and undertake more development works."
He added, "Konkan Railway is jointly owned by Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, and Maharashtra. Kerala and Goa have already transferred their shares to the central government. In Karnataka, the process has been delayed slightly. I have discussed the matter with chief minister D K Shivakumar, and he has assured me of his full cooperation. I have also discussed the issue with district in-charge minister U T Khader, and I am confident that Karnataka's shareholding will soon be transferred to the Centre. Since Maharashtra's consent is also essential for the merger, we will make every effort to obtain its approval.”
"One of my key demands is to introduce a Vande Bharat Express between Bengaluru and Karwar. A feasibility study is currently underway, and I am hopeful that the coastal region will soon get Vande Bharat train services. Further, we have submitted a proposal worth Rs 14.50 crore for the comprehensive development of the Barkur railway station. If the funds are sanctioned within the next two months, infrastructure works, including passenger shelters and other facilities, will commence immediately," he said.
Addressing the gathering, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna said, “Over the past two years, we have witnessed several developments at the Udupi railway station. To introduce a lift facility, a proper shelter was first required. Now that the shelter has been completed, we are inaugurating the lift facility today. Earlier, passengers, especially those travelling at night, did not have a proper place to wait or stay. The waiting area was also not fully adequate. Now, with these facilities, passengers will benefit greatly. As the chairman of the Udupi Urban Development Authority is present here, I request him to focus on beautifying this area. Development should not be limited to the railway station alone. We must also ensure proper road infrastructure. At present, the approach road is narrow. We need a wider and better road, similar to a highway, like the Malpe-Manipal road. Such development will make the railway station more accessible and beautiful.”
Udupi Urban Development Authority chairman Dinakar Herur said, “Udupi is the land of Lord Krishna and a major tourist destination that attracts visitors from across the world. To promote tourism, infrastructure development is essential, and the railway station is also an important part of this development. Before Kota Srinivas Poojary became the member of parliament, there were several pending issues and difficulties, including the railway bridge project, which had remained incomplete for many years. The MP has completed that project and has also carried out several other development works. I am confident that he will continue working for the development of the region.”
Regional railway manager Asha Shetty said, “Konkan Railway has always been making efforts to improve passenger amenities. The progress may sometimes appear slow, but we have been working step by step. Over the past one year alone, Konkan Railway has spent around Rs 4.5 crore on the Udupi railway station. This includes the installation of the lift and the construction of platform shelters and roofing facilities. The next major focus will be the circulating area of the railway station. The MLA has also been insisting on its development. My next target is to beautify the circulating and parking areas. We have received several complaints regarding waterlogging in the parking area, particularly because it is located at a lower level. We will now concentrate on resolving this issue and improving the overall appearance and facilities in the circulating area.”
The newly inaugurated lift has been opened for public use with immediate effect, marking another step toward enhancing passenger convenience at the Indrali railway station. The inauguration witnessed the presence of railway officials and passengers.