CM for speedy work on Rishikesh-Karanprayag rail line

Tribune News Service

Dehradun, May 28

Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has directed for speedy conduct of works linked to the proposed Rishikesh-Karanprayag railway line in Uttarakhand.

Presiding over a review meeting in Dehradun today, Trivendra Singh Rawat directed Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) to shift the power lines coming on the way of the line within 90 days. He also directed the Jal Sansthan to shift drinking water pipelines in the area within 30 days. 

The CM said the Forest Department must clear the areas within three days as the foundation works of the railway bridges had to be done. It was also decided to disburse Rs 5 crore to Chamoli, Pauri, Tehri and Uttarakashi administrations to conduct administrative works linked to the Rishikesh-Karanprayag railway line.

As per preliminary estimates, a total of 47 villages and 411 houses will be affected by the laying of the railway line. The time limit to provide compensation to the affected had been kept till October end for Chamoli district whereas for the rest of affected districts it will be December end. 

Rail Vikas Nigam Limited’s chief project officer Himanshu Badoni said they were getting full support from all the departments.

Additional chief secretary Om Prakash, Principal Secretary Dr Uma Kant Panwar, Secretary R Meenakshi Sundaram, Garhwal Commissioner Vinod Sharma and other senior officials of the state and RVNL were present. DMs of Chamoli, Pauri, Tehri and Uttarakashi also attended the meeting through video conferencing.