VISAKHAPATNAM: In a recent statement, Union Minister for Railways and Communications Ashwini Vaishnaw addressed the Kantakapalli accident, attributing it to human error and confirming an ongoing inquiry.
The inquiry committee has submitted its report, and the government remains committed to operationalizing the South Coast Railway Zone, resolving land issues with the state government. Minister Vaishnaw also announced plans for the introduction of additional Vande Bharat trains.
The Kantakapalli accident, which occurred on October 29, resulted in 14 fatalities and at least 50 injuries. The Railway Minister, along with BJP's Rajya Sabha member GVL Narasimha Rao, inspected Simhachalam Railway Station, slated for development as an Aadarash Railway Station at an estimated cost of 19.8 crores, including additional platforms and a two-storied building.
Minister Vaishnaw emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to the South Coast Railway Zone, acknowledging delays and land disputes with the state government. Despite the challenges, the central government has allocated Rs. 106 crores for the zone, with a significant investment of Rs. 18,000 crores in infrastructure development.
In a positive development, the district collector and GVMC commissioner pledged to allocate 15 to 20 acres of land for the new railway zone headquarters within a week or two. Once allocated, the foundation stone for the South Coastal Railway Zone Headquarters will be laid promptly, as the detailed project report (DPR) has been approved, designs finalized, and a budget of Rs. 106 crores allotted.
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