Daijiworld Media Network – Puttur

Puttur, Jun 19: A joint survey has been conducted for the proposed railway and road projects through the Shiradi tunnel. While road alignment is not expected to pose any issues, the railway project requires both alignment and gradient considerations. Accordingly, the two departments will carry out separate surveys, said MP Capt Brijesh Chowta.

Speaking to reporters, Chowta said that officials are currently carrying out several technical assessments for the operation of Vande Bharat trains and expressed confidence that the service would commence soon. Once the schedule is finalized, a demand for a halt at Puttur will be brought to the attention of the authorities, he added.

The MP explained that the existing railway gradient is 1:50 and there is an expectation of improving it to 1:150 in the future. He said that while the railway department would require a distance of 88 km to achieve the desired gradient, the road transport department could accomplish the same within 38 km. In this regard, both departments will conduct separate surveys. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the road project is being prepared, and alignment work is currently underway. He further stated that he would meet the concerned officials during the monsoon session to obtain additional information on the project.

Chowta also pointed out that at present there is only a single route between Mangaluru and Bengaluru. He said that demands for operating more trains without upgrading railway infrastructure are not practical. According to him, the Hassan-Mangaluru Railway Corporation should be merged with Indian Railways and two routes between Mangaluru and Bengaluru should be developed. Such a move would also help address gradient-related challenges in the ghat section. He added that a long-term plan is being formulated in this regard.

The MP further stated that discussions would be held with the concerned authorities regarding the proposed road widening work near the Puttur APMC railway overbridge.