New Delhi: The Railway Budget has put special emphasis on the development of rail network in the Northeast region, by allocating Rs 5,116 crore. This is a 54 per cent increase the previous year’s allocation.
In a step that shows the resolve of the Modi government in developing infrastructure in the Northeast, the funds will be used for the 23 ongoing projects in the region. Out of these, 11 projects have been described as “national projects”. These include Harmuti-Murkongseke and Balipara-Bhalukpong sections, Dudhnoi-Mendipathar new line and Lumding-Badarpur-Silchar gauge conversion.
Railways minister Sadananda Gowda was hopeful that these measures will give a boost to the state capital connectivity projects in the region.
The ministry has been working on a plan to connect all the state capitals in the Northeast with the rail network.
The PM had promised the electorate in the Northeast that if voted to power, his government will lay special emphasis on the overall development of the region.
Minister for Northeast (independent charge) V.K. Singh had been working to focus on railway projects for the region.
Mr Gowda said that there would be special focus on the completion of rail link between Banihal and Katra.
