Rajkot: Industries in Kutch are pressing for a comprehensive railway master plan and enhancing the train connectivity to the district, citing rapid industrialization, rising population of workers and increasing tourist footfall.The Federation of Kutch Industries Association (FOKIA) representatives made a slew of demands at the recently held meeting of the 36th Zonal Railway Users Consultative Committee (ZRUCC) of Western Railway in MumbaiThe meeting was chaired by Pradeep Kumar, general manager, Western Railway (IRSME). Representing FOKIA, ZRUCC member Bhaven Thakkar sought expeditious implementation of the proposed gauge conversion of the Bhuj–Naliya railway line and the extension of the new broad gauge line from Luna to Vyor–Lakhpat.In a press statement, FOKIA quoted Pradeep Kumar as informing that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the project has been prepared and will be forwarded to the Railway Board in New Delhi upon approval.“In the absence of an international airport in Kutch, there’s a need for direct high-speed rail connectivity,” said Thakkar.FOKIA also pressed for the introduction of Vande Bharat Sleeper Express services between Bhuj–Delhi and Bhuj–Mumbai, citing the significant Kutchi population residing in Mumbai and abroad. FOKIA managing director Nimish Phadke added that improved railway services will benefit thousands of people engaged at Kandla–Gandhidham and Mundra ports. “We have suggested exploring the possibility of a parallel public rail line to the existing Adipur–Mundra line and operating regular DEMU and MEMU services for the growing workforce,” he added.The organization also called for expediting the Bhuj–Khavda rail line, noting that over 50,000 workers are engaged in projects worth approximately Rs 2 lakh crore in the Khavda region.
