(a) whether the Railways have any proposal to establish a new Railway Zone in the State of Andhra Pradesh;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the State Government of Andhra Pradesh has sent any proposal in this regard;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the action taken/being taken by the Railways in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(SHRI MANOJ SINHA)
(a) & (b): As per Item 8 of Schedule 13 (Infrastructure) of Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014, Indian Railways is required to examine establishing a new Railway zone in the successor State of Andhra Pradesh and take expeditious decision thereon. To, inter-alia, examine the feasibility of creation of the new Railway Zone, a committee of Senior Officers from Railways has been constituted by the Ministry of Railways. In this context, proposals from different sources have been received in this Ministry suggesting various locations, as the head-quarters of the new railway zone.
(c) & (d): Yes, Madam. Request has been received from the Chief Minister, Government of Andhra Pradesh for creation of a new railway zone in the State with its Headquarters at Visakhapatnam.
(e): The Ministry has asked the Committee to consult the various stake holders also, including the Members of Parliament, State Governments, etc. before a final decision is taken.
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