Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Apr 10: MP Capt Brijesh Chowta announced that the extended passenger train service from Mangaluru Central to Subramanya Road will be officially flagged off on April 12 by union minister of state for railways V Somanna.
Capt Brijesh Chowta stated, "It was a long-pending demand to extend the passenger train, which previously operated only up to Kabaka Puttur, to Subramanya Road. This service will be highly beneficial for working individuals."
The new schedule includes three daily trips:
- Departure from Mangaluru Central at 4:00 am, reaching Subramanya Road at 6:30 am.
- Return journey begins at 7:00 am, reaching Mangaluru Central at 9:00 am.
- A third trip will depart from Mangaluru Central at 5:45 pm.
Regarding infrastructure development, Capt Chowta informed that the short tender process for the maintenance of the port connectivity road from Surathkal to BC Road has been completed. The project, worth Rs 26 crore, includes drainage work, vegetation clearance, grass cutting, road markings, and repairs, all of which are expected to be completed before the onset of the monsoon. The letter of undertaking (LoU) has already been issued to the concerned contractor.
Commenting on legislative developments, he said, "The passage of the Wakf Amendment Bill is a landmark move. As per the Anwar Mannipadi report, the Wakf Board is involved in one of the largest scams in Karnataka. I had also initially demanded a CBI probe into the matter."
He further informed that an order is expected soon regarding the acquisition of an additional 45 acres of land for the expansion of Mangaluru Airport.
During the recent session, questions were raised to ensure a single-window clearance system, streamline procedures, and fix accountability in the sanctioning of disability pensions for ex-servicemen.
Capt Chowta also urged the state government to expedite all necessary clearances for the Shiradi Ghat road project, which is currently in the detailed project report (DPR) stage in coordination with the railway department. "Prioritizing this project will also help minimize environmental impact," he said.
He concluded by stating that there is a possibility of cabinet approval for the proposed Coast Guard Academy in Mangaluru within the next one to two months.