Pics by Spoorthy Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore

Mangalore, Feb 16 (DHNS): The doubling works between Shornur and Mangalore will be completed in about six months, promised Union Minister of State for Railways E Ahmed.   
 
Addressing the reporters after inaugurating Food Plaza of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation on Monday at Mangalore Central Railway Station, he said that doubling works in 300 kms have been completed while a total of 10 kms (Nethravati-Kankanady, Shornur and Calicut) is left pending. He said that frequent change of contractors, technical problems and climatic conditions have resulted in delay in execution of works.

Speaking about Nethravathi bridge, he said that the new contractor has been assigned the works and it has been moving on satisfactorily. Works of two span and four girders are pending. However Commissioner for Railway Security is yet to inspect and clear security aspects of the bridge. He said that the Government is also thinking over electrification of Mangalore-Shornur line.

Answering a query he clarified that there will be no problem or injustice meted out at anybody due to the extension of Mangalore-Bangalore train to Kannur.  “There is no discrimination or denial of facilities. The apprehension with regard to ticket booking is unnecessary because under online booking, anyone can book tickets and get one if tickets are available,” he said.

Food Plaza has 4 segments- vegetarian segment, non-veg segment, juice and ice cream counter and  bakery counter. Earlier he inspected the Nethravathi bridge works.  MLA U T Khader and railway officials were present.