(a) the present status of the proposed construction of Jogighopa (Assam)-New Moinaguri Broad Gauge railway track;
(b) whether the construction is yet to start on the project despite allocation of funds by the Railways;
(c) if so, the reasons therefor;
(d) whether there have been demands from the people of Assam and West Bengal to expedite the work on the project; and
(e) if so, the steps taken by the Government in the matter?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS(SHRI R. VELU)
(a) to (e): Final location survey from New Maynaguri to Jogighopa has been completed and part detailed estimate has been sanctioned. Land acquisition is in progress and land for 28.93 Km in West Bengal and 0.8 Km in Assam has so far been handed over by the State Governments. Earthwork and bridgeworks are in progress in New Maynaguri Road–Mathabhanga section. An outlay of Rs. 50 crore is proposed for the project in Budget 2005-06.