Tri-weekly Mangaluru -Yashwanthpur express train flagged off
Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Feb 21: MP Nalin Kumar Kateel flagged off the new tri-weekly express train between Mangaluru -Yashwanthpur here at Mangaluru Central railway station on Thursday, February 21, and also laid the foundation stone for extension and raising of platform 1 and 2 at Kabaka Puttur station, extension and raising of platform 1 at Bantwal station and foot over-bridge at Subramanya road.
Addressing the gathering, Nalin Kumar Kateel said, "After independence, the development of railways was slow in pace. But in the last five years, there has been tremendous development. Dakshina Kannada has got over Rs 1,500 crore for development and in the coming days, Mangaluru Central railways station will also be developed.
Development works such as Padil under-bridge, and Jeppu Kudupady underpass has also been completed. The development work of Jeppu Mahakalipadpu will soon be completed as MCC has allotted funds and the railway department gave green signal for the same.”
Speaking over the issue of incomplete national highway, he said, “The development works of Talapady to Goa stretch until Kundapur was given to Navayuga Company under BOT (Build Operate Transfer). Hence, they should pay from their own pockets and complete the work. They should also collect toll fees for 35 years and hand over the bridges. They have done speedy work in completing Ullal and Pavanje Bridges. They have completed 95 km work out 97 km, but unfortunately Pumpwell and Thokkottu flyovers remain pending. On February 26, joint secretary will review the national highway and speedy work will be undertaken. By this year, Pumpwell and Thokkottu flyover will be completed.”
Mangaluru South MLA Vedavyas Kamath said, "The demand of coastal region regarding railways has been fulfilled by flagging off the tri-weekly train. People should utilise the facility. Other than this, there are a lot of demands which will soon be fulfilled under the leadership of MP Nalin Kumar Kateel.”
Mayor Bhaskar Moily said, "This the new tri-weekly express train between Mangaluru -Yashwanthpur is a facility provided for public. The railway department should support us in all development works. I assure that MCC also will lend the same support.”