(a) the progress of the works relating to gauge conversion of the Quilon Shenkottai-Virudunagar Metre Gauge Line in Southern Railway;
(b) whether the suggestion to simultaneously start the work from Quilon and Virudunagar has been considered and approved;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the time by which the work on the said project is likely to be completed?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI BANDARU DATTATRAYA)
(a) to (c): On Virudhunagar-Tenkasi, Tirunelveli-Tiruchendur and Quilon-Punalur sections, earthwork and bridge works are in progress. The track linking on Virudhunagar-Rajapalayam section has almost been completed. On Punalur and Sengottai section, final location survey has almost been completed and detailed estimate etc. is in progress.
(d): Virudhunagar-Rajapalayam section is targeted for completion by 31.03.2003 and Rajapalyam-Tenkasi section during 2003-04. No target date has been fixed for completion of the work on remaining sections.