Pune: Supriya Sule, MP of Baramati has appreciated efforts put in by Union Railway Ministry in maintaining Cleanliness in the state of Maharashtra. Along with extending appreciations regarding cleaning processes, Sule has also shed some important concerns over fewer trains at various head stations across the state which are, inter-alia Daund, Nira, Baramati and Jejuri.
Appreciation for Cleanliness Efforts
During the Parliament session, Supriya Sule thanked the Union Railway Ministry for their commitment to cleanliness in railway stations across Maharashtra. The MP said, “The work done by Railway Ministry in enhancing the standard of cleanliness in the area is something to be appreciated with bringing out the positive results of the same on the people”.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw thanked Sule for appreciating her remarks. He said the efforts of the Railway Ministry, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for overall infrastructure and passenger experience, especially cleanliness, were top priority. The word exchange reflects the approach to collaboration between local MPs and the Union Ministry to better the railway system in the state.
Concerns Over Reduced Train Stops
Supriya Sule did not hesitate to comment that even as the cleanliness initiatives of the Indian Railways were to be welcomed, there had been several stations in Maharashtra which had faced a reduction in the number of train halts at a few key stations. The stopping trains at Daund junction have come down to 40 from 80. This was also the situation at other places such as Nira, Baramati, and Jejuri.
Now, Sule pointed out that cutting train stops would adversely affect the local economy, especially small towns and rural areas. She appealed to Railway Minister Vaishnaw as a member of parliament of the Baramati constituency to reverse these cuts and either restore or enhance the train stoppages at these stations for the sake of boosting economic growth, ease of travel, and connectivity within the region.
Union Railway Minister’s Response
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw replied to the issues raised by Supriya Sule. He said he was aware of the problems and was working on solutions. “The Pune-Daund area is of huge importance, and the master plan developed by the Railway Ministry addresses all sorts of infrastructure and connectivity issues,” he said.
These will be done in combination with other projects that will include mega terminals in Uruli and a complete overhauling of the railway station at Pune, changing Shivajinagar as a terminus, besides third and fourth lines on Pune to Lonavla, as well as all-new line between Pune and Ahmednagar. Vaishnaw assured that the ministry is committed to investing around Rs 1.6 lakh crore in these projects, which would enhance the overall railway infrastructure and also give a much-needed boost to economic development in the region.
Railway Projects Being Undertaken Currently in Maharashtra
Many of the projects proposed are either already underway or will soon begin as confirmed by the officials from Pune Railways. The third and fourth lines between Pune and Lonavla were specifically mentioned as the one that will greatly enhance rail connectivity in the region. They expect this development to relieve congestion, improve train schedules, and increase the efficiency of the rail network, which are critical for both daily commuters and long-distance travelers.
This concept of redevelopment and expansion of railway infrastructure in Maharashtra meets the long-term goals for modernizing the transportation system of the state and also enhancing the quality of services provided to passengers.
Conclusion
Supriya Sule’s appreciation for the cleanliness work done by the Union Railway Ministry is a reflection of this increasing importance of maintaining better standards at railway stations. Also, her demand for adding more train stops at strategically important stations like Daund and Baramati clearly shows that a balanced approach to this rail infrastructure development is required whereby the economic needs of such local communities are also taken care of.
With ongoing projects and large-scale investment in the railway system for many of its ongoing and soon to be planned projects, it promises a bright future to the state of Maharashtra. In case the local MPs like Sule work in coordination with the Union Railway Ministry, such improvements for enhanced connectivity and convenience for the travelling populace will soon reach the region.
Refer:
TOI, Link to article
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