Visakhapatnam: Vizag MP Mathukumilli Sribharat appealed to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to preserve the Waltair Division in its current form within the proposed South Coast Railway (SCoR) zone. During their meeting, the MP highlighted the division’s historical significance and substantial contribution to freight revenue.
Highlighting its administrative and cultural importance to the people of North Andhra, MP Sribharat requested the ministry reconsider plans for bifurcating the division. Drawing parallels with cities like Mumbai and Kolkata, where multiple railway divisions operate seamlessly, he underscored the feasibility of retaining the Waltair Division as is.
MP Sribharat also urged the Railway Minister to expedite operational arrangements for the zonal headquarters. He pointed to examples such as the East Coast and South Western Railways, which initially operated with temporary setups before transitioning to permanent facilities.
Additionally, the MP Sribharat proposed introducing a daily direct train service between Visakhapatnam and Bengaluru and a Vande Bharat Express connecting Visakhapatnam and Tirupati. He also advocated for an additional stoppage for Vande Bharat trains at Duvvada station, citing its strategic importance for key areas like Gajuwaka, Lankelapalem, and the Steel Plant Township.
The proposals aim to enhance connectivity and preserve the region’s rich railway heritage while catering to the needs of North Andhra residents.
