(a) whether the formation of a separate Visakhapatnam railway zone is under consideration of the Government;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the present status of the proposal and the reasons for the inordinate delay; and
(d) the time by which it would be created in accordance with the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(SHRI RAJEN GOHAIN)
(a) to (d): As per Item 8 of Schedule 13 (Infrastructure) of Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014, Ministry of Railways was required to examine the feasibility of establishing a new Railway Zone in the successor State of Andhra Pradesh. To, inter-alia, examine the feasibility of establishing a new Railway Zone, a Committee of senior Railway officers had been constituted. The Committee was asked to consult various stake holders, including the Members of Parliament, State Governments, etc. before a final decision is taken. The Committee has already submitted its report. In view of the complexities involved in the exercise, the matter is under further detailed examination in the Ministry of Railways.
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