Rs 40 crore for projects in Kerala: Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu

KOZHIKODE: Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu has said  that the railways will make long-term plans to clear the backlog of development works.  “The rail transport sector should have a mechanism  for  long-term plans.  Instant methods will not yield the desired results,” he  said after laying the foundation stone for the extension of the foot overbridge and launching  the high speed Wi-Fi facility  at Kozhikode railway station on Monday.

Through video-conferencing,  he dedicated to the nation the double line track between Thiruvalla and Chengannur and the new platform at Palakkad Junction. He also launched the Wi-Fi service at Thrissur  station and inaugurated the escalator at Thrissur and Thiruvananthapuram central railway stations.

“All development hurdles being faced by Kerala will be resolved. We are planning to allocate Rs 40 crore for the projects in the state,” he said. The  development of Ernakulam harbour terminal will be made through PPP. “The railways are laying emphasis on centre-state participation and that of investors. Kerala has extended a positive response to this.  The leaders here are open to the new policy  which  will be drafted after consulting the state government,” he said.   

Mr  O. Rajagopal MLA, who attended the function,  urged  the minister to conduct a workshop to discuss and assess the development woes of the state.  Mr  M.K. Raghavan MP submitted a memorandum to the minister on the various demands of Kozhikode station. Corporation mayor Thottathil Raveendran, Southern Railway general manager Vassishta Johari and Palakkad DRM Naresh Lalwani were also present.