Train stopped over delay in payment of compensation to farmers

A bizarre drama played out when a Mysuru-bound intercity train was stopped at Harihar railway station in the district today following a court order over non-payment of compensation dues to farmers whose land was acquired for a railway line.
Armed with the judicial order, court bailiffs, assisted by local police, showed its copy to the engine driver as Dharwad-Mysuru Inter-City train chugged in, causing its stoppage for 90 minutes to the consternation of passengers.
Officials said the recent order by Harihar city civil court came after three farmers moved it seeking payment of higher compensation of Rs 36 lakhs due to them for acquisition of their land for the Harihar-Kottur railway line more than 15 years ago.

The local railway officials consulted authorities in Mysuru Division after which they gave an assurance to the aggrieved parties about early settlement of dues, officials said.
After this, the train was allowed to proceed, officials said.