CHITRADURGA: The frequent increase in fuel prices has put the Indian Railways in the dock. It is now planning on increasing fares in proportion to the fuel price hike. It is also planning to impose higher fares on busy routes.In an exclusive chat with Express on Saturday, State Minister of Railways KH Muniyappa hinted at the price hike.He said: “Due to the wavering trend of petroleum prices in the international market, railways is reeling under crisis and there is an urgent need to overcome the burden. However, in view of our social obligation, the ministry will take a suitable decision which will not affect the people.”“Since eight railway budgets, the ministry has not increased a single rupee and has provided maximum satisfaction to the public with its service motto,” he added.Muniyappa also said that with considerable pressure from a cross section of the society and MPs, the ministry is thinking of providing better services and increasing the charges. "We are keen on implementing this issue and the ministry will shortly take a decision," he added.Tender ProcessReplying to a question on the progress of Tumkur- Chitradurga rail link project, Muniyappa said the tendering process for survey will be finalised in 10 days, after which the work will be completed in three months.He added that the real project work will begin based on the backing of the state government in providing land for laying tracks.“I am thankful to the Karnataka government for providing land free of cost for rail projects. Normally projects under the railway ministry take 10 years to complete. In the case of Karnataka, we can complete it in half the time and the people of Chitradurga can travel in new trains by the end of 2015.”Work on identification of land for the rail coach factory at Kolar is in progress and the Deputy Commissioner has been entrusted the work. This will also be completed on time, he ensured. MP Janardhana Swamy said: “The progress of Tumkur- Davangere railway project is satisfactory and as per schedule.”
Comments
0 comment