Question : CONVERSION OF RAILWAY LINE

(a) whether the availability of railway facilities is very less in Northern region of Gujarat;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Railways have conducted any survey for conversion of metre gauge railway line from Kalol-Barucharaji-Chanastha to Ranuj into broad gauge;

(d) if so, the details thereof and the time by which it is likely to be completed;

(e) whether the Railways propose to open of a new railway route to Kuchch by laying of long railway line between Chanastha, Haring and Raghanuypur rail section; and

(f) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by the Railways in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI MANOJ SINHA)

(a) to (d): Northern Region of Gujarat is adequately connected with Railway network. However, demands for additional facilities and connectivity are received from public representatives from time to time. Accordingly, surveys for gauge conversion of Kalol -Kadi-Katosan (37 km) and Katosan-Bahucharaji-Ranuj (65 km) have been taken up. Survey requires interaction with various departments of State Government, District Administration, trade & industries, etc. for assessment of traffic projection. It also involves preparation of plans, drawings, calculation of cost, rate of return etc. Since this is an extensive exercise, hence, no time frame has been fixed for completion of these surveys.

(e): No, Madam.

(f): Does not arise.