Etala Seeks Rail Link to Medaram

Hyderabad: Malkajgiri BJP Lok Sabha member Etala Rajendar has urged Union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to conduct a feasibility study for establishing a dedicated railway line to Medaram, the site of the Sammakka-Sarakka Jatara. The biennial tribal festival, considered the largest in Asia, draws millions of devotees from across Telangana and neighbouring states.

Rajendar raised the request during a meeting with the minister in New Delhi on the sidelines of the ongoing Parliament session. He emphasised that direct rail connectivity to Medaram would greatly ease the transportation burden during the festival, reduce traffic bottlenecks, and provide a safe and efficient travel option for pilgrims.

Describing the Medaram Jatara as a cultural and spiritual symbol for tribal communities and the general public alike, Rajender said better infrastructure would reflect the government's commitment to preserving tribal heritage.

He also raised other key issues with the minister. Citing the struggles of families of deceased railway employees, Rajender called for expedited processing of compassionate appointments, stressing that timely employment support would offer much-needed relief during distressing periods.

Additionally, he sought urgent action on the construction of a Road Over Bridge (ROB) at Ayodhya crossroads in Alwal. The proposed ROB, he said, was essential to decongest traffic and improve safety for commuters and local residents.