Prabhu launches slew of railway projects in Andhra

Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu on Friday launched a slew of railway infrastructure projects in Andhra Pradesh.

Laying the foundation stone for new railway line between Nadikudi and Srikalahasti Stations via remote video link from Delhi, he also launched high speed Wi-Fi at Guntur Station, dedicated Route Relay Interlocking, Vijayawada and a newly-constructed hostel building in Electric Traction Training Centre, Vijayawada.

The minister also flagged off Tirupati-Visakhapatnam Double Decker AC Express and commissioned Rayadurg-Kalyandurga section (part of new line between Rayadurg and Tumakuru).

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju participated in the programme held at Railway Institute, Vijayawada.

Simultaneously functions were also held at Guntur, Piduguralla, Tirupati and Rayadurga.

Prabhu assured holistic development of Andhra Pradesh by strengthening integrated transport solutions and integrated port connectivity.

He said the ministry had increased the budget outlay for the state in last two years for speeding up various projects.

Ministry of Railways and the state government also signed a joint venture agreement for taking up rail infra development in the state.

Naidu said Prabhu was giving priority to railway projects in the state. He said the projects launched Friday would facilitate development in Nellore, Prakasam and Guntur districts, while the Tirupati-Visakhapatnam AC Double Decker would provide connectivity to nine districts in the state.

He reiterated the demand for creation of railway zone in Visakhapatnam.

To commemorate the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of South Central Railway, a coffee table book titled "Wheels of Change" was also released.

Vashishta Johri, General Manager, South Central Railway highlighted the salient benefits of the various initiatives launched.

--IANS

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