Railways’ new schedule for rail line to Manipur

NEW DELHI, June 6 – Imphal, capital ofManipur, is likely to find a place in the railway map of India in 2016, according to a new schedule drawn up by the Railway Ministry. Delay in execution of therailway projects figured at the meeting convened by the Prime Minister, lastweekend.
Following Manipur ChiefMinister O Ibobi Singh's dismay at the slow implementation of the project, the railway authorities agreed to supplement equipment and manpower and assured that the railway line up to Tupul would be completed by 2014 and up to Imphal by 2016, sourcessaid. Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh called a high-level meeting with Manipur Government and senior CentralMinisters and top officials on Saturday to review implementation of nationalprojects, besides several critical infrastructure, health and educationventures. The meeting was also attended by Defence Minister AK Antony, Minister for Development of North Eastern Region Bijoy Krishna Handique.
O Ibobi, who expressed concern regarding the slow pace of implementation of the railway project, also requested the railways authorities to induct additional manpower and equipment for ensuring stoppage of further slippages.
Regarding suggestions of theMember (Engg) of Railway Board, the Border Road Organisation was advised to strengthen all weak bridges on NH-53by December 2011 so that the Railways could bring in all required heavy equipment required for the tunnelling work.
The PM also reportedly asked the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to clear all pending DPRs submitted by BRO, and also develop a new proposal for converting NH-53 toa world class road, befitting a road leading to international borders.
The Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways informed that both proposals were to be included in 'Phase A' of the Special Accelerated Road Development Programme and approval of the Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure was being obtained. The PM also advised the Ministry to bring the two issues to the Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure within June for approval. (ASSAMTRIBUNE)