Bhubaneswar, 05 August (H.S.) : Dr. Sambit Patra, Member of Parliament for Puri, met with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi to address crucial matters concerning the expansion of railway services and enhancement of passenger amenities within the Puri Lok Sabha constituency.

According to a press release from Dr. Sambit Patra's office, Dr. Patra presented a comprehensive memorandum during the meeting. This document outlined several key requests, including additional train stoppages, the establishment of new passenger halts, and the construction of road overbridges (ROBs) and permanent underpasses. The Railway Minister committed to positively considering these proposals and taking the necessary follow-up actions.

Among the principal demands were a regular stoppage for Train No. 18413 Puri–Paradip Intercity Express at Kanas Road Passenger Halt (KASR) and the creation of a new passenger halt between Nayagarh and Manikagoda in the Itamati–Champatipur area. Dr. Patra also advocated for the construction of a road overbridge at Level Crossing No. 219 in Nirakarpur, falling under the Khurda Road Railway Division, alongside a permanent underpass at the Malatipatpur level crossing near Puri railway station.

The MP stressed that these initiatives would directly benefit thousands of commuters in Kanas block, Nayagarh district, and neighboring rural areas. He anticipates that improved rail connectivity will facilitate easier, more affordable, and convenient daily travel for students, employees, traders, farmers, and the general public.

Furthermore, Dr. Patra noted that enhanced transportation infrastructure would bolster the movement of agricultural produce, local goods, and products from small businesses, thereby strengthening the local economy. The proposed infrastructure projects are also expected to boost safety and ensure continuous movement by reducing long waits at railway crossings, alleviating traffic congestion, and minimizing accident risks.

Dr. Patra specifically emphasized that the construction of the ROB at Nirakarpur and the underpass at Malatipatpur would significantly benefit school students, patients, ambulance services, farmers, and daily commuters by ensuring safer and smoother transit throughout the region.

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda