Ashwini Vaishnaw seeks Odisha govt’s cooperation for completion of railway projects

Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has sought the cooperation from Odisha government for completion of many rail projects in the State.

“The Union government has taken several major steps for the development of many railway projects in Odisha. A total of Rs 10,012 crore has been allocated this year for different projects in the State. Renovation of 57 railway stations is being done this year. However, cooperation is needed from the Odisha government for the completion of these projects in time,” said Vaishnaw.

Clarifying reports about the Centre's assurance on Bargarh-Nuapada via Padmapur railway line and other projects, published in some sections of media, Vaishnaw said that State government’s cooperation in various aspects is required for the completion of these projects.

“Few days back, State Commerce and Transport minister Tukuni Sahu wrote a letter requesting to grant a new railway line from Padmapur to Bargarh and Nuapada. She has been apprised about the development,” said Vaishnaw.

“Odisha Rail Infrastructure Development Ltd has been given the responsibility to complete the railway line from Padmapur to Bargarh and Nuapada. However, the DPR of the new project is under the jurisdiction of the State government and is yet to be approved,” the minister said.

“Cooperation from the Odisha government is required in land allotment, forest clearance and maintaining law and order situation in the project areas to expedite the work of various railway projects in the State,” he added.