Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw discussed various infrastructure issues during a recent session in the Rajya Sabha. He touched upon topics like potential Metro services in Jammu, stalled projects due to land and environmental issues, demands for premium train connectivity, and ongoing railway initiatives in Kerala.
During the Question Hour, MP Gulam Ali inquired about plans for a Metro in Jammu. Minister Vaishnaw mentioned the challenges of operating rail systems in high-altitude regions like Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the need for specialized train designs for such areas, indicating progress towards tailored solutions for improved urban mobility.
In another session, Minister Vaishnaw emphasized obstacles hindering railway expansion, particularly the environmental concerns surrounding the Silver Line semi-high-speed rail project in Kerala. He urged state cooperation in resolving land acquisition issues that delay national projects.
Advocating for enhanced connectivity, BJP MP Dr. Medha Vishram Kulkarni proposed introducing Vande Bharat Sleeper trains on the Delhi-Pune route. Minister Vaishnaw also addressed the stalled Angamaly-Sabarimala rail project in Kerala, promising progress once land acquisition disputes are resolved.
