MP Sribharat seeks faster execution of key railway projects
Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat has urged the South Coast Railway (SCoR) to expedite key railway infrastructure projects in the region, particularly the construction of the third and fourth lines between Gopalapatnam and Visakhapatnam and the expansion of Visakhapatnam railway station from eight to 14 platforms.
Mr. Sribharat raised the issues during a meeting with SCoR General Manager Sandeep Mathur at the zonal headquarters at Siripuram on Friday. The meeting covered railway infrastructure, operational constraints, passenger amenities and connectivity in the region.
The MP said the additional lines were essential to ease congestion on the busy Gopalapatnam-Visakhapatnam section and reduce delays caused by trains having to cross one another and wait at signals. He also sought measures to remove operational bottlenecks along the Visakhapatnam-Gopalapatnam-Kothavalasa corridor.
He called for the early completion of the expansion of the coaching yard on the Gnanapuram side and the associated signalling works. Improvements to passenger facilities at railway stations, including foot-over bridges, lifts, escalators, waiting halls and parking areas, were also sought.
Mr. Sribharat proposed providing halts at Duvvada for Vande Bharat Express trains 20833 and 20708. He said the proposal would particularly benefit commuters from Gajuwaka, Duvvada and neighbouring areas.
He also urged the railway authorities to examine the feasibility of introducing services connecting Visakhapatnam with Tirupati, Chennai, Secunderabad and Bengaluru. A night express connecting Visakhapatnam with the Amaravati-Guntur region was among the other proposals put forward.
Employees’ transfer issue raised
The MP also raised the issue of employees who were posted to Rayagada Division following the bifurcation of the erstwhile Waltair Division. He requested that their applications for transfer to Visakhapatnam Division be considered, particularly in cases where their families reside in Visakhapatnam and adjoining areas.
Mr. Sribharat stressed the need for regular reviews of pending railway projects and sought early resolution of issues requiring the intervention of the Railway Board and the Ministry of Railways.
The meeting also focused on improving train punctuality and passenger circulation at Visakhapatnam railway station, which is undergoing expansion to cater to the growing demand for rail services in the region.