Railway MoS V. Somanna reviews works in Shivamogga, says contractor of new railway line will be blacklisted

Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna speaking at a press conference in Shivamogga on Monday. | Photo Credit: S.K. Dinesh

Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna has said that the contractor of the Shivamogga-Shikaripur-Ranebennur broad-gauge railway line will be blacklisted and the work will be re-tendered within two months.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting to review the progress of railway projects in Shivamogga on Monday, Mr. Somanna expressed disappointment over the delay in taking up the work. He said the contractor would be blacklisted and an inquiry ordered against him.

Regarding the coaching depot project coming up at Kote Ganguru near Shivamogga at a cost of ₹97 crore, the Minister said that first phase of the work would be completed soon. It includes construction of four railway lines, two pit lines, two passenger platforms, a station building, and a covered shed for the maintenance and repair of railway coaches. Once operational, the depot would facilitate additional train services and reduce congestion at Shivamogga Town station. It would also serve as an important originating point for the under-construction Shivamogga-Ranebennur broad-gauge railway line.