Karnataka's Minister for Large and Medium Industries and Vijayapura District In-charge, M.B. Patil, has formally requested the Union Railway Ministry to significantly enhance rail infrastructure in Vijayapura. His proposals include establishing a dedicated coach depot and constructing an additional entry-exit gate at the city's railway station, aiming to bolster connectivity and passenger amenities across North Karnataka.
Patil outlined these critical projects in a letter to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday, following earlier discussions with Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna. He emphasized that a coach depot in Vijayapura would considerably improve railway maintenance capabilities and enhance rail connectivity throughout the district and the broader North Karnataka region. The minister noted that the recent relocation of the goods shed from the Vijayapura railway station premises to Aliyabad has created ample land for developing this proposed depot into a vital railway maintenance hub. This strategic move would facilitate more efficient servicing of trains and support the expansion of regional rail operations, including the forthcoming Bengaluru-Vijayapura Vande Bharat Express, expected to commence services in the coming months.
Beyond maintenance facilities, Patil also pressed for an additional arrival and departure gate at the Vijayapura railway station. He highlighted Vijayapura's status as an important historical city and a major tourist destination, attracting lakhs of visitors annually. The station experiences heavy passenger traffic, particularly during weekends, festivals, and public holidays. An additional gate would ensure smoother movement of passengers and better crowd management, addressing the growing footfall.
Patil confirmed discussing both proposals with Union Minister of State V. Somanna during a Railway Department programme held earlier this week, receiving a positive response. He expressed confidence that the Railway Ministry would give favourable consideration to these requests, recognizing their potential to strengthen railway services and contribute significantly to the overall development of North Karnataka through enhanced connectivity, operational efficiency, and improved passenger amenities.
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📰 Source: Mangalorean News