Bhubaneswar. Nov. 27: The state government today urged the Centre to allocate at least Rs 3,200 crore for the state in the coming railway budget so that incomplete projects could be completed and the network could be expanded.
In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, chief minister Naveen Patnaik said the railway route length and rail density in the state is well below the national average and also substantially lower than that in neighbouring states even though it contributes huge revenue to the railway sector.
“In contrast, gross earning from various stations in the state is estimated to be in excess of Rs 14,000 crore in 2013-14. I would request the PM to kindly ensure allocation of a sizeable part of the revenues generated from Odisha within the state itself for strengthening and expanding rail infrastructure,” said Naveen.
Stressing the need for more funds for expansion of the railways in the state, Naveen said: “The central government has initiated several ambitious projects such as dedicated freight corridor aligned with mega industrial hubs, national road expressways and high speed train projects, but it has completely bypassed Odisha although some of the country’s largest investment in steel, aluminum and power sectors are coming up here.”
Naveen also urged the prime minister to ensure providing sufficient funds for projects such as Delang- Sakigopal-Puri, expansion of Puri and Malatipur station, third line between Bhubaneswar and Barang, doubling between Cuttack - Barang and Baranga - Rajathgarh.
The state also requested the Centre to take up railway projects in the Maoists affected region. It also asked the Centre to introduce new railway lines. Besides, the wish list also includes doubling, electrification, gauge conversion, passenger amenities and introduction of new trains.
The state government has also agreed to bear 25 per cent of the construction cost of Jeypore-Malkangiri project and provide all land free of cost and bear 50 per cent of the construction cost of Jeypore-Nabarangpur project.
