Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (VP)
Mangaluru, Jul 17: V Somanna, union minister for state (MoS) railway and jalshakti, inspected the Mangaluru Central Railway Station and announced that the station's renovation will be begin in March 2025 and completed within two years.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, July 17, Somanna stated, "We must consider restoration with available resources. The government has long promised to upgrade the railway station, but it remains undone due to issues with Palakkad, Konkan, and Mysuru railways impacting Mangaluru City. We will address this with concerned officials. Ashwini Vaishnav has assured action, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi supports railway expansion projects nationwide. All stations in the state will be developed, requiring coordinated efforts."
He continued, "Since assuming office, I have visited many places, but the railway situation in Mangaluru and Karwar concerns me. We will take preventive measures. A blueprint, developed with input from all ministers, will be finalized for the refurbishment of Mangaluru Central within one-and-a-half months."
Responding to questions about government measures to address landslides near railway tracks, Somanna highlighted, "We have a disaster management team and specialized war rooms. We will take all precautions, especially given this year's significant increase in rainfall. Our aim is to find a lasting solution to prevent landslides and ensure passenger safety."
Regarding allegations of casteism raised by chief minister Siddaramaiah, Somanna remarked, "The Siddaramaiah I knew as a minister seems different now. We cannot be blinded, and doubts arise if he remains the same."
On the issue of empty Vande Bharat trains, Somanna responded, "I am not aware of this. We will discuss it in the meeting. My focus is on providing top-quality railway infrastructure to Mangaluru. I am not concerned about Siddaramaiah's MUDA case or the tribal board scam."
MPs Capt Brijesh Chowta and Kota Srinivas Poojary, MLAs Vedavyas Kamath and Harish Poonja, and others were present.