**Union Minister V. Somanna Reviews Railway Projects in Shivamogga**
Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, V. Somanna, conducted a comprehensive review meeting of ongoing railway projects in Shivamogga today. The meeting was attended by a host of dignitaries, including MP B. Y. Raghavendra, MLA Channabasappa, MLA Sharada Naik, MLC Bharathi Shetti, MLC D. S. Arun, MLC Balkish Banu, MLC Dr. Dhananjaya Sarji, Gurudatta Hegade, Deputy Commissioner of Shivamogga, General Manager of South Western Railway (SWR) Arvind Srivastava, Divisional Railway Manager of Mysuru Shilpi Agarwal, along with officials from Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL), RITES, and other state government representatives.
In his address to the press, Minister V. Somanna emphasized the significant contributions of the Railways to the development of the Shivamogga region. He provided an overview of major infrastructure upgrades planned and underway across the Mysuru Division. A focal point of his address was the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, an ambitious project aimed at modernizing 15 railway stations within the Mysuru Division at an estimated cost of Rs. 385 crores.
The Minister also discussed the progress of key projects, including the new Shivamogga–Shikaripura–Ranibennur railway line, the establishment of a coaching depot at Koteganguru, the doubling of the Birur to Shivamogga Town line, and the development of world-class goods sheds at Shivamogga. These initiatives are expected to significantly enhance passenger amenities and operational efficiency, fostering regional economic growth and improving connectivity.
During the meeting, local representatives raised several important demands. These included the redevelopment of Bhadravathi railway station under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, acceleration of upgrade works at Talguppa, Sagarajambagaru, and Shivamogga Town railway stations, and the upgradation of Kumsi railway station. Additionally, proposals were made for a new Talguppa-Honnavar railway line and the introduction of a new Vande Bharat Express train service connecting Shivamogga Town and Bengaluru. Requests were also made to increase the frequency and extension of various existing train services to better serve the region’s transportation needs.
The meeting highlighted the commitment of the Railways and government officials to advancing the railway infrastructure in Shivamogga, contributing to the overall development and connectivity of the region. Further announcements and project progress updates are anticipated as these initiatives move forward.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/corporate-gallery/v-somanna-holds-meeting-with-local-mp-mlas-mlcs-railway-district-officials-to-review-railway-projects
